It was a way for people to poke fun at the king or their rulers by making nutcracker figures of them she says. The soldier nutcrackers that still appear during christmas time were created in the sonneberg and erzgebirge regions of germany in the early 1800s. Civil war union or confederate army soldier nutcracker. History and tales of nutcrackers from old germany, your collectors items christian steinbach on. German nutcrackers by fuchtner company in seiffen germany. Today, the border between germany and the czech republic runs just north of the main. Christmas eve at the stahlbaum house, the arrival of godpapa drosselmeier and the presentation of the nutcracker, the fierce battle between the nutcracker and the sevenheaded mouse king, and much more.
The nutcracker was first developed around 1870 and is nowadays one of the most famous representatives of the erzgebirge. Read on to learn more about the history of the nutcracker and how they evolved into todays form. New listing antique hand carved bavarian nut cracker wood wooden. However, nutcrackers also possess a rich history that goes back about 300 years. However, nutcracking devices have had a longstemming evolution for a few thousand years. Christian ulbricht nutcrackers and smokers ulbricht nutcracker see more. Erzgebirgische volkskunst popular arts and crafts from. A hammer was the original way to open nuts, but as people got fancy, so did our tools. Prices in usd are subject to change due to currency exchange rates and are updated biweekly. However, the stereotypical whitebearded, swordtoting nutcracker common to christmas decor is only one chapter in the art and character of nutcrackers. Nutcrackers, smokers, angels and miners made as copies of classical models, little shaping trees of excellent quality, a wide range of ring turned animals and a. Book nutcrackers shape and history kathe wohlfahrt. Book nutcrackers shape and history english edition written by adolf heidenreich, considered by many to be among the top nutcracker experts, this.
This included making handmade german nutcrackers, smokers, and cuckoo clocks. They became acquainted with the many of the artisans in the germanys erzgebirge region and collectors elsewhere and read much about. Arlene wagner, the nutcracker lady from the nutcracker museum in leavenworth, washington, says that the bronze hands, as it was dubbed, was discovered in 1930 in a grave near taranto, italy. Erzgebirge nutcracker indiana christmas nutcrackers 19461990. Erzgebirgische volkskunst popular arts and crafts from the. Originally, they were used for cracking nuts, she says holding a nutcracker of a soldier and working its lever. Seiffener volkskunst nutcrackers erzgebirge palace. Vintage erzgebirge ulbricht miniature bunny rabbit reading book germany wooden. Today kwo is one of the leading firms in producing traditional wood articles within the erzgebirge region of germany. A unique history of nutcrackers featuring the in a nutshell infographic. Erzgebirgskunstshop erzgebirgische volkskunst smokers, nutcrackers, pyramids, christmas arcs, flower children, angels and many more for christmas decoration. A nutcracker is a tool designed to open nuts by cracking their shells. No matter what youre looking for or where you are in the world, our global marketplace of sellers can help you. However, when the formerly prosperous mining industry began to dwindle, people living in the area had to find new sources of income.
Nutcracker dolls originate from late17th century germany, particularly the ore mountains german. Since that time they have been dealing with the manufacturing of wooden items in traditional style of the erzgebirge. Erzgebirge nutcracker indiana christmas nutcrackers 1946 1990 gdr nutcracker in christmas nutcrackers 1946 1990 steinbach smoker in christmas nutcrackers 1946 1990. It was a great success and the steinbach nutcrackers fan club increased tremendously. We lack the budget to do justice to all of them, but will showcase those which are affordable and which can be purchased on ebay in the usa. Erzgebirgische volkskunst popular arts and crafts from the erzgebirge mountains. There is an older plan in hohenhameln in northern germany. We serve cookies our website uses cookies, which help us to improve our site and enables us to deliver the best possible service and customer experience, as well as to provide social media features. Where did the first nutcrackers come from christkindlmarkt. Nutcrackers carry with them a sense of tradition as well as an abundance of stories and legends of the past. No matter what youre looking for or where you are in the world, our global marketplace of sellers can help you find unique and affordable options.
The leavenworth nutcracker museum shows an 1880 miner of wilhelm fuchtner along with a miner presently made in the fuchtner family workshops. Detailed information about christian ulbricht nutcrackers from the german erzgebirge a history of the ulbricht nutcracker. Further small areas are nature reserves and natural monuments, and are protected by the state. Traditional nutcrackers can be found all over germany, but especially in the erzgebirge region. For exact size please refer to cm indication 1 inch 2. World charm the steinbach wine grower german nutcracker is both unique. The steinbach company or, steinbach gmbh vereinigte werkstaetten deutscher volkskunst, maintains two production workshops to produce its beautiful and whimsical nutcrackers. We especially like the ones from the old east germany with the.
What would erzgebirge folkart be without its nutcrackers. German traditional gifts handmade wooden art from the erzgebirge in germany. Money back guarantee ensures you receive the item you ordered or get your money back. The history of nutcrackers according to german folklore, nutcrackers were given as keepsakes to bring good luck to your family and protect your home. The steinbach nutcracker company had been family owned for 5 generations and the steinbach brand has become by far the most popular nutcracker company in many parts of the world. The legend of the nutcracker and traditions of the erzgebirge. Learn more about what makes these christmas decorations special, and where you can get one. History the rich silver ore deposits not only gave the ore mountains their name but also provided an income for generations of miners, like the ancestors of the ulbricht family. Alexander taron importer 32534 christian ulbricht nutcracker mouse king x x read more at the image link. Nutcrackers are a huge part of christmas decorating. And even with the nutcrackers prevalence, it can be difficult to find an authentic german nutcracker. The seiffener volkskunst eg was founded by local craftsmen in 1958. It seems like companies compete to see who can created the largest or most elaborate variations on the nutcracker theme. The erzgebirge region in germany has become very popular and world known for its creation of beautiful and whimsical nutcrackers, smoker men, christmas pyramids and candle arches.
German christmas nutcracker mouse king glazed 7 inch christian ulbricht check out the image by visiting the link. Erzgebirgepalace german nutcrackers, incense smokers. Smokers, nutcrackers, arches, pyramids and many more. The erzgebrige region of germany is well known for its authentic wood working. Our selection includes nutcrackers from the fuechtner workshop, where the first traditional german nutcracker christmas decoration was carved. By noreen malone for most people, christmas nutcrackers the kind that look like little men call to mind sugarplum fairies and first trips to the ballet. Before you begin your collection, you should visit the leavenworth nutcracker museum in the bavarian village of leavenworth, washington or the erstes europa nussknacker museum in neuhausen, germany which is located in the erzgebirge. Collecting nutcrackers explore the nutcracker tradition. Often the nutcracker is the image of authorities from the past. All are handcrafted in germany in the erzgebirge mountains where nutcrackers were invented.
Nutcrackers weihnachtsmuseum deutsches weihnachtsmuseum. Hoffmann was set to music by tchaikovsky and originally choreographed by marius petipa. This region, located on the eastern side of germany, is mountainous hence the name erzgebirge. Today many wooden toy soldier nutcrackers are manufactured in germany to meet the demands of the many collectors in the united states. The oldest metal nutcracker known dates to the 3rd4th century b.
Get the best deals on erzgebirge collectible miniatures when. He comes to you clad in a vibrant red soldiers uniform with green accents. Wonderful book on the history of christmas decorations from the. The erzgebirge palace offers the complete world of the german erzgebirge folkart to collectors and enthusiasts of traditional wooden gifts and woodcarving decorations made in germany. The history of the steinbach nutcracker family starts in 1284 with erwin. This area claims to be the birthplace of many christmas customs and icons, like the christmas tree and christmas ornaments, as well as many traditional christmas gifts like candle carousels, pyramids, nutcrackers, figurines and smokers. History of german nutcrackers get a nutcracker for your home. Indoor christmas decorations christmas themes christmas holidays merry christmas xmas cork stoppers bottle stoppers ballet books santa wish list. Written by adolf heidenreich, considered by many to be among the top nutcracker experts, this 200page book shows the evolution of nutcrackers from around the world. A wellknown type portrays a person whose mouth forms the jaws of the nutcracker, though many of these are meant for decoration. The history of nutcrackers extends as far back as when humans were cracking and eating nuts, and will continue on into the future for as long as people continue to enjoy natures shelled protein and healthy fat source. Stamped on the bottom of the nutcracker original erzgebirge made in germany.
German erzgebirge nutcrackers ulbricht nutcrackers buffalo santa nutcracker by christian ulbricht. The german nutcracker is unique to the world of german crafts being produced in the erzgebirge mountain regions of northeastern germany because they are one of the few crafts that were designed after the ruling class, military personnel, church leaders, and other authoritative figures that existed in germany and throughout europe for centuries. Shipping charges may apply all sizes in inches are approximate. The history of german nutcrackers starts with a fairy tale. Hard to find books online ephemera nutcrackers history holiday decor etsy vintage christmas. Summary recently viewed bidsoffers watchlist purchase history. The erzgebirge palace offers a large variety of models of the following series and editions. Erzgebirge nutcracker indiana christmas nutcrackers 1946. The nutcracker suite became very popular in many countries around the world and helped the erzgebirge nutcracker become just as famous. Featuring glorious illustrations by caldecott honorwinner, diane goode, this beautiful and adventurous classic tale will dance its way into your familys holiday traditions for years to come.
Wood turned on lathes that can be traced back to the small german mining town of seiffen, in the mountains of the erzgebirge around the czechoslovakian border. German traditional gifts handmade wooden art from the erzgebirge in germany the history of german nutcrackers starts with a fairy tale. Wilhelm fuchtner produced the first erzgebirge nutcracker of spruce in 1870. The story of the nutcracker delightful tale of a little girls love for an enchanted nutcracker, with all the wonderful scenes. The history of nutcrackers extends as far back as when humans were cracking and eating nuts, and will continue on into the future for as long as people continue to. Nutcrackers have always been enjoyed for their whimsical expressions. They were often given as gifts, and at some point they became associated with christmas season.
Erzgebirgische volkskunst popular arts and crafts from the erzgebirge mountains hellmut bilz on. The german author jacob grimm 17851865 described nutcrackers as idols that are made to exorcize evil spirits. Original erzgebirgische volkskunst real handcraft from the erzgebirge made by famous manufacturers. Nm the history of nutcrackers leavenworth nutcracker museum.
Make offer nutcracker palace guard made in west germany red soldier erzgebirge with box erzgebirge expertic german nutcracker 16 wooden handcrafted made in. The first limited edition steinbach nutcracker was king ludwig ii with 3000 pieces. Color photos pack every page and contrast a wide range of nutcrackers. When tchaikovskys ballet the nutcracker suite premiered in 1892, the popularity of nutcrackers spurted tremendously. Since then, german workshops have been busy making similar wooden nutcrackers, especially to meet the demands of u. Christian ulbricht nutcrackers the ulbricht family history. This plant was opened after the steinbach family moved from the erzgebirge region at the end of world war ii. Standing wooden nutcrackers in the form of soldiers and kings were shown in the sonneberg and erzgebirge regions of germany by 1800 and in 1830, the term. Then in 2015, the family had to file for bankruptcy and closed their workshops. Get the best deals on erzgebirge nutcracker indiana christmas nutcrackers 19461990 when you shop the largest online selection at. The upper western part of the ore mountains, known in german as erzgebirge, belongs to the ore mountainsvogtland nature park.
Christian ulbricht nutcrackers the ulbricht family history nutcrackers and smokers have a romantic history. Click here to read about the oldest carved nutcracker in the museum. Wood was the most common material, and its what german woodworkers in the erzgebirge region turned to in the late 17th century when they. A wellknown type portrays a person whose mouth forms the jaws of the nutcracker, though many of.
Etsy is the home to thousands of handmade, vintage, and oneofakind products and gifts related to your search. Nutcracker is in the blue uniform which i have seen either considered union or confederate in some instances. The erzgebirge regions of germany is full of life, culture and traditions. The erzgebirge nutcracker scene has gotten a little crazy since the nutcracker ballet has gotten so popular. Great news all of the nutcrackers displayed below are currently in stock and ready for immediate shippingget your own little piece of authentic christmas magic today. The legend of the nutcracker and traditions of the erzgebirge althoff, k. The most popular origin story of nutcrackers in germany is that a wealthy. The classical german erzgebirge nutcracker has a grim look and a big angry mouth. The design was perfected in the erzgebirge region near the ore.
While it is fairly easy to find a nutcracker at christmasthemed stores and toy shops around the world, chances of finding a specific model are increased by looking online like on ebay. Available exclusively from kathe wohlfahrt and the german christmas museum, this truly exceptional book is an ideal gift for collectors and history buffs alike. Erzgebirge nutcracker in christmas nutcrackers 19461990. Christian ulbricht nutcracker mouse king x x the mouse king nutcracker depicts a villainous figure from the nutcracker suite. Wonderful book on the history of christmas decorations from the erzgebirge mountain area of. In 1872 wilhelm fuchtner, known as the father of the nutcracker, made the first commercial production of nutcrackers using the lathe to create many of the same design. Nutcrackers the nutcrackers from the erzgebirge have achieved exceptional fame.
The history and tales of steinbach nutcrackers hard to find ca. Make offer nutcracker palace guard made in west germany red soldier erzgebirge with box 1979 nutcracker king original erzgebirge e. Choose a different manufacturer or show all products within this category. The origin of the nutcracker, a classic christmas story, is a fairy tale ballet in two acts centered on a familys christmas eve celebration. Germany imports, made in germany erzgebirge gifts and collectibles. One origin story attributes the creation of the first nutcracker doll to a craftsman from seiffen. Holzknackl nutcracker vtg wooden original from the rothenburger weihnachtswer. Authentic german christmas nutcrackers erzgebirge palace. Nutcracker vintage wooden soldier made in german democratic republic. The most common nutcracker is the in the form of a wooden soldier, which weve had for about 200 years now. Erzgebirge nutcracker in christmas nutcrackers 1991now. The nutcracker motif extends to more than just the figures. Towns like seiffen and annabergbuchholz are full of authentic nutcrackers.
The eastern part, called the eastern ore mountains osterzgebirge, is a protected landscape. The art and character of nutcrackers book by arlene wagner. The legend says that a nutcracker represents power and strength and serves like a trusty watch dog guarding your family from evil spirits and danger. You might think of pyramids spinning by candlelight or myriad whimsical nutcrackers and smokers when you think of the erzgebirge region. Book description nutcrackers have been in use for thousands of years. As a very special gift we recommend steinbach nutcrackers limited editions, kwo mozart orchestra, schwibbogen dresdner frauenkirche and christmas pyramids with. See more ideas about incense, nutcracker christmas and german. There are many designs, including levers, screws, and ratchets. Has the original red tassels on the side as well as sword. Buy german christmas nutcracker santa claus 30, 0 cm 12 inches authentic german erzgebirge nutcrackers christian ulbricht. The german author jacob grimm 17851865 described nutcrackers as idols that are. For christmas and easter or for the rest of the year you will find wunderful products of high quality in our assortment.
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