Melia the Goat Herder – Fontanini® 5" Collection

House of Fontanini – Item #54117

Graceful, faithful, and quietly devoted, Melia the Goat Herder brings a beautiful pastoral presence to your Fontanini Nativity village. Introduced in 2021 as part of the beloved Fontanini 5" Collection, Melia is lovingly depicted carrying a small white goat in her arm while another stands faithfully beside her feet. Her coral-red gown with elegant gold accents and a flowing sky-blue sash adds warmth and movement to this charming figure, while the rose-colored satchel at her side reflects her simple life as a shepherdess.

Melia spent many quiet hours tending her goats in the countryside. Though she often worked alone in the fields, she discovered deep comfort through prayer and learned that God’s presence is always near. Her peaceful faith and humble devotion mirror the gentle care Mary showed for Baby Jesus, making Melia a meaningful addition to any Nativity display. Placing Melia within your village serves as a reminder of faith’s quiet assurance and the beauty found in simple devotion.

Each Fontanini figure is handcrafted and hand-painted in Italy in the traditional Old World Tuscan style that collectors have treasured for generations. Sculpted from durable polymer and carefully finished by skilled artisans, Melia reflects the artistry and storytelling that have defined Fontanini creations for over a century.

The Fontanini Nativity tradition began more than 100 years ago in Bagni di Lucca, Italy, nestled in the hills of Tuscany, when Emanuele Fontanini opened his first shop in 1908. What began as a humble family workshop has grown into a world-renowned tradition of heirloom-quality Nativity figures. Today, these beautifully sculpted figures continue to be molded and hand-painted by skilled artisans in a multi-generational process, preserving the craftsmanship that collectors cherish.

Here at House of Fontanini, we proudly carry on that tradition. For over 25 years, our locally owned small business has shared these remarkable Nativity pieces with collectors and families across the country through our Minnesota warehouse and online store. We don’t just sell Fontanini — we love it. Our mission remains simple and heartfelt:

“Telling His Story, one piece at a time.”

Whether you are expanding a treasured family Nativity scene or beginning a new collection, Melia adds warmth, movement, and faithful storytelling to your display. Be sure to shop Fontanini and explore the Fontanini Outlet at House of Fontanini to discover more beautifully crafted figures that bring the Nativity story to life.

Product Details

• Item Number: 54117

• Collection: Fontanini 5" Scale Nativity

• Material: Durable Polymer

• Finish: Hand-painted in Old World Tuscan style

• Made in: Italy

• Figure Scene: Melia carrying a young goat with another by her side

• Introduced: 2021

• UPC: 089945773347