STANDING MAN CARVED NUTCRACKER Pipe & Umbrella Antique Swiss Black Forest c1880. This is a rare and very collectible STANDING MAN Carved Antique Wooden Nutcracker. From the Late 19th Century. This rare STANDING MAN nutcracker. Is hand carved and well modeled in deep relief with very good carving and detail, and is medium brown in color. Depicts a well modeled man with a very expressive face. Stands on a raised triangular plinth base with beveled corners. The carving on this work is exceptional- the face is very lifelike. The man wears a toboggan cap, jacket, breeches, and boots. He has a full beard, is holding a pipe to his mouth with one hand, and holds his umbrella in the other hand. Dimensions (each): 6.8 In. Tall x 3.0 In. Wide x 4.3 In. The estimated date is circa 1880. STANDING MAN CARVED NUTCRACKER is in very good condition- noting an expert professional restoration to the beard (See photos). Otherwise, condition status includes minimal normal wear and rubbing. Overall, this work is sound, having no chips, cracks, or major defects, and having had no apparent repairs or other restorations. Please see all photos which are a part of this description. Please note that this item is photographed in natural light, the photos appear lighter than actual color; shadows that may appear as irregularities are not necessarily chips, cracks, or discoloration. In the 1800′s the wood carving industry of Switzerland started in the town of Brienz. By the end of the 1800′s it had become the driving force for this industry in Switzerland and Germany. Swiss wood carvers became world renowned and featured at many international exhibitions. In Europe, Black Forest carvings (wares) became a symbol of luxury and wealth. The finest pieces of Black Forest carving were often found in Royal collections and elite collector’s homes (usually Victorian world travelers). Swiss & German Nutcrackers. Originating in 15th century Germany, Nutcrackers evolved over time into decorative objects, with the wooden version taking center stage in the 18th century. Taking on the form of soldiers, kings, and animals from popular stories, nutcrackers became associated with Christmas in the 19th century. They were believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. A popular symbol of the season, they have inspired countless adaptations in literature, music, and film, including the “Nutcracker Suite” ballet. Nutcrackers are associated with good luck, prosperity, strength and protection. As popular collectibles, Nutcrackers hold significant cultural value. Please check out my other listings with Fleurman. Please bookmark this work; Listing Category and List Price are subject to change. If you see something wrong in a listing, please send me a message and let me know and I will address the situation accordingly.