I've saved the best for last. This incredible German papier-mache Father Christmas/Belsnickel, ca. 1890, measures 25 inches tall and could possibly have also been a candy container at one time, although now glued shut. His coat and hat are trimmed in black curly cloth "fur," which is supposed to simulate Persian lamb trim. The buttons on the coat are of papier- mache, made to look like they were made of deer horn which were worn by the Germans in that time period. His basket is hand woven and very fragile. 
Eyes and eyebrows are beautifully hand painted. Examining the coat closely, one can see when opening up the folds of the coat in the back that the original color was once light blue. It has faded over time to a light gray. 
His beard is the most magnificent I've ever seen on a Belsnickel. It's not made from the usual rabbit fur that the Germans used on their early papier-maches. Some type of goat perhaps? In any event, it looks just like real hair, and the perfect shade of gray. Oh, and by the way ... 
5 Comments
Diane Smith
12/24/2013 09:09:29 pm
I've enjoyed your Christmas House Walk of the Bickert home. Many lovely pieces! I have to wonder along with Susan Sevig where you store all of the items. Enjoy your holiday with your kids and grandkids. Diane
Kelly Verhelle
12/25/2013 09:41:22 pm
I love him more than ever.
Mary Jane Nelson
1/4/2014 12:33:44 am
A very happy new year Susan....it's possible you do not remember me, but we shared a Paris vacation a few years ago with Eileen, Deb Webster, her mother Mary Ann and myself..I have fond memories of that vacation. I enjoyed exploring your website this a.m. with the antique German toys and other items One of my sons has been invited the past couple of years to an acquaintance's home in Milwaukee who has a large tree decorated entirely with antique toys, Eric says it is spectacular!!
Mary Jane, of course, I remember you! Eileen and I talk often about our trip with "the Marys"! We had a shared Thanksgiving dinner with Deb and family this year. The tree you mentioned decorated with antique toys sounds fantastic. Wish I could see it! Wishing you the best for 2014! Leave a Reply. |
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Susan's PageWelcome to Living Tastefully’s “Antique of the Week” page. Our love of antiques is reflected in every aspect of our everyday lives. We are passionate about collecting and also love functional antiques that can actually be used and not only admired. Hopefully we can inspire you to incorporate antiques in your home and your life to add charm and beauty to your surroundings.
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