This is the last nativity made by Fenton Art Glass. According to the 1997 Fenton Christmas Catalog the molds were originally sculpted by Jon Saffell for the 1997-2000 Nativity Collection. Frances Burton is the designer, a term that refers to the way the set is painted, not the actual molds. Donna Robinson appears to have painted most of the pieces, but signatures of Dane Fredrick and Vicky Anderson appear occassionally on the few sets I have seen. The pieces are opal sanded glass with metallic paint and 22k gold accents. The tallest piece is the wise man Gaspar, at 7 inches.

The Renaissance Glory Nativity was sold in two different configurations. The matched, numbered set was produced only in 2007. Because this set was only produced for one year, all the pieces are marked "First Edition". The nativity was also sold in unnumbered 3 piece sets from 2007-2010. The smaller sets did not have a star backdrop available and were issued one set per year. The Holy Family was issued in 2007, followed by the Wise Men in 2008, the Angel/Camel/Donkey in 2009, and the Shepherds in 2010.

The understamps of the 13 piece set are marked with the Fenton logo, the words "First Edition", the silver and black Fenton sticker, the number of the set, and the artist signature. The original price tag was placed on the baby Jesus. Some of the pieces have the letters 'MR' (or 'MK') and 'PL' painted variously in white or gold. I have not found any source identifying these letters, but I would guess they might be initials of a second artist or someone else involved in the design process.

During the first year of their production, the three piece sets were marked with the Fenton logo, the words "First Edition", the silver sticker, and the artist signature. Following years were considered second editions and marked only with the artist signature.

This page from the 2007 Christmas Catalog shows the First Edition Holy Family and the complete 13 piece Renaissance Glory Nativity with the star backdrop. The star appears to be an unknown metal in a wood base and is plated in 22k gold. The description reads, "Using classic colors and finishes from the Renaissance era, designer Frances Burton has created a reverent, richly beautifyl Nativity Set that will be cherished for a lifetime. Special metallic paints and vivid 22K gold accents add to the historical authenticity of this marvelously detailed set".

Fenton second editions were also painted differently to distinguish them from first editions. The changes are subtle, using the same style and overall color shceme. The first edition Joseph, on the left, has an orange robe with a green shawl, while the second edition has a green robe and orange shawl. Mary's outfit has also been reversed and the manger appears slightly darker.

I have never seen any second edition shepherds, and since the company was sold in 2011, it is possible none were ever produced.