Antique German Belsnickel St. Nicholas Father Christmas 9 3/8 In. Mica Robe

  

From my office closet and a Tucson estate some ten years ago is this highly charismatic I believe late 19th or early 20th Century German hand painted papier mache Belsnickel. Whether you see him as Saint Nicholas or Father Christmas, this beauty is an upper tier example to say the least - unarguably antique and heads above the ones normally encountered. The white bearded face is sensitively painted and he still holds his original branch of holly.

That desirable red chenille trim to the hood of his white robe is well preserved, and there is an abundance of the original mica coating also present on that garment. Really nice and the real McCoy - for those who know and have seen others to compare, little more need be said. Condition is quite good for the genre though of course not absolutely pristine perfect, with a wonderful aura of time to the surfaces.

There are diagnostic signs of soil and wear from period seasonal display. There is a usual bit of loss to the fugitive mica, the majority still being present (keep in mind only the very best of these figures had any to begin with). There are some (ancient) stable and tight stress lines visible in the photos - typical and frequently seen, and not immediately obtrusive. A couple of old losses at the base are a common occurance on these - and so you know the figure still stands straight. I'm nitpicking for the obsessive here and a look at the pics should give a good idea of appearance and condition.

Size is about 9 3/8 in. If you prefer period for quality and a "look" that endures, or simply wish an heirloom worthy centerpiece for a seasonal display, this will have great meaning for you. THIS IS LISTED AS U. This item is in the category "Collectibles\Holiday & Seasonal\Figurines".

The seller is "pooterpee" and is located in this country: US. This item can be shipped to United States.

• Material: Papier Mache
• Occasion: Christmas
• Type: Santa
• Time Period Manufactured: 1920s or Prior
• Features: Hand Painted
• Finish: Antique
• Country/Region of Manufacture: Germany
• Original/Reproduction: Original
• Era: Early 20th Century (1911-1940)