Controversial Infant Jesus Statue Stolen from Brussels Nativity Scene

Authorities in Belgium are investigating the theft of a controversial infant Jesus statue from a Christmas Nativity scene in the historic Grand Place of Brussels. The incident occurred late on the night of December 1, 2023, or in the early hours of December 2, leaving officials perplexed and the community outraged.

The statue, created by artist Victoria-Maria Geyer, has been a topic of heated discussion on social media due to its unconventional design. The figures in the Nativity scene, including the infant Jesus, lack traditional facial features such as eyes, noses, and mouths. Geyer intended for the cloth figures to allow people from various backgrounds to see themselves represented in the biblical story of Christ’s birth. She expressed the hope that “every Catholic, regardless of their background or origins can identify themselves” in her artwork.

The theft has drawn criticism from several quarters. Georges-Louis Bouchez, leader of the center-right MR party and part of Belgium’s ruling coalition, stated that Geyer’s representation “in no way represents the spirit of Christmas.” He likened the figures to “zombie-like” individuals seen at train stations, indicating a disconnect between the artist’s vision and public sentiment.

In December 2022, over 4 million visitors flocked to Brussels’ Christmas market, which features 238 vendors and a large Christmas tree at the center of the square. The Nativity scene, selected by both the local Catholic church and the City of Brussels, is part of a longstanding tradition managed by Delphine Romanus, deputy director of Brussels Major Events. Romanus confirmed that the original infant Jesus statue had been replaced shortly after the theft and that organizers would be increasing surveillance around the manger.

Despite initial reports suggesting that the infant Jesus had been beheaded, Romanus clarified that this was false information. She noted that in previous years, other baby Jesus figures had been subject to theft or vandalism. The theft has sparked a renewed discussion about artistic merit and the public’s reaction to contemporary interpretations of traditional symbols.

Brussels resident Francis De Laveleye expressed his dismay at the situation, stating that the discourse surrounding the artwork should not devolve into controversy that ridicules the city. He emphasized the need for respect for artists and their work, regardless of differing opinions.

As authorities continue their investigation, the community remains divided over the artistic merit of Geyer’s work and the implications of its theft. The incident highlights a broader conversation about the intersection of art, culture, and public sentiment during the holiday season.