 The scene 's popularity inspired much imitation in Catholic countries , and in the Early modern period sculpted cribs were set up in Catholic churches and homes , often exported from Italy . These elaborate scenes reached their artistic apogee in Papal state , Emilia , Kingdom of Naples , Genoa that had an important tradition , notably those of Anton Maria <unk> . By the end of the 19th century nativity scenes became popular beyond Catholic settings , and many versions of various sizes and in various materials such as terracotta , paper , wood , wax and ivory were marketed , often with a backdrop setting in the stable . 
