Erzgebirge Nutcrackers

Nestled in the Erzgebirge regions of Germany, the age old art of creating nutcrackers began in the 15th century and continues today.

Produced for generations by German woodcrafters, these authoritarian figures were first created by commoners as a joke against their suppressors. It was always considered fun to make a “king” or “soldier” assist them in the menial task of cracking a tough nut.

According to German folklore, the nutcrackers were given as keepsakes to bring good luck to your family and protect your home. The legend says that a nutcracker represents power and strength and serves like a trusty watchdog guarding your family from evil spirits and danger. A fierce protector, the nutcracker bares its teeth to the evil spirits and serves as the traditional messenger of good luck and goodwill.