Nutcracker (3) - Large original solid wood nutcrackers, 50 cm high, Erzgebirge. - Wood

Offered: two large, 50 cm tall heavy solid-wood nutcrackers. Origin possibly Germany, Ore Mountains region. Material: solid wood. Period unknown, but possibly late 1960s to 1970s. This form of woodcarving emerged from around 1677 and later became known when Wilhelm Friedich Fuchtner began promoting this folk art in 1870. From the Ore Mountains, this tradition spread quickly and has become a worldwide Christmas icon.

According to German folklore, the nutcracker is much more than just a tool; it is a protector of the home. It was believed that the soldier, with his sharp teeth and strong jaws, kept evil spirits, danger, and misfortune at bay. He brought luck, strength, and courage to the family that welcomed him into the home. Because nuts were an important (and symbolic) food source in winter, the figures were mainly on the table during December.

These are 50 cm high, weighing 1158 g and 1104 g (together 2262 g), and are still in nice condition. The pedestal is 12 x 11 cm. Period estimated around 1970, but I cannot find a comparison. One soldier wears a fur hat and holds a rifle, the other holds a drum. The small nutcracker is also wooden, 13 cm high, and is more recent. The crank to crack the nuts works well. Here and there there are light signs of use, see detail photos. On one hat there may have been restoration of the wooden triangles. The nutcrackers are well packed and shipped with traceability. NOTE: NO SHIPMENT OUTSIDE EUROPE.