The Nutcracker (or Christmas Soldier) is known the world over as a symbol of Christmas, but did you know that the giving of the Nutcracker is a German tradition, the dolls are meant to be symbols of good luck, frightening away malevolent spirits.
The nutcracker is a unique piece of art that originated in the 17th century from the Erzgebirge region of Germany. The early nutcrackers were in the shape of people, birds and other animals and used to crack nuts. Later in the 1700s, the nutcracker was depicted as a soldier and was said to protect your house from bad energy with his strength and power. He also said to bring your family good luck when on display.
An average handcrafted nutcracker doll is made out of about 60 separate pieces of wood and were made in many sizes. They traditionally resembled toy soldiers and are often painted in bright colours.
