Nutcrackers & Christmas
Think \”Nutcrackers!\” Christmas is the word that almost always pops up, and most people will have a fond memory to tell or express, sharing their holiday traditions surrounding this iconic tool.
Their specific reason for usage is not much of a mystery. It is a historically valuable tool invented with the sole purpose to assist in the cracking of nutshells. Now the role they play in our more recent history, and the how and when they went from being tools to Christmas decorations is where the real mystery lies.
Because nuts are indigenous to a variety of types of regions, they have long been an essential part of the human diet to many different peoples all over the world. Archeological digs have unearthed nut shells, and crude tools that were used time and time again to further provide evidence that mankind all along the path of history has consumed nuts. From the farthest reaching evidence in history, levers were used to crack open the shells.
This practical tool simply evolved over time. As metals were discovered and used for making tools and weapons, metal molding became the norm. However, it wasn’t until craftsman began to sculpt and carve hem out of wood that they started to take on shapes such as Santa Claus, animals or other nutcracker decorations. They were also commonly made to resemble the kings, queens and noblemen of that era.
As the centuries passed, they were presented and shared as a practical gift. They then became cherished works of art that were displayed in their homes. This may be one explanation as to how they found their way into the traditions of the holiday.
As their popularity gained ground, many people came to possess many different versions. The holiday celebrations usually involved dinner parties and feasts that offered nuts. This might explain how the two came to partner so well. Nutcrackers and Christmas definitely go hand in hand.
In today’s market, a personalized or whimsical Christmas nutcracker is the favored choice. This time of year sees an onslaught of everything from the traditional type of holiday characters, to musical craftwork being offered to the consumer. These figurines are available in all types of materials and a wide range of sizes.
There is no end to the variety you will find surrounding nutcrackers. Christmas is the perfect time to explore the wonderful world of craftsmanship, although you can find them through numerous retailers throughout the year. As outdoor Christmas decorations, they’ll guard the entrance to your Christmas wonderland inside.
The most highly collected pieces are crafted in Germany. The German makers dedicate many hours of intricate work to assure that the customer will receive the best quality Christmas nutcracker that will last through many generations. Each piece of wood is hand selected and hand crafted by the artist.
Then the artisan completes his work by painting the piece by hand. A lot of care is taken to provide the owner with a quality work of art. This type of craftsmanship can be rather expensive, but the avid collector will tell you that nutcrackers for Christmas are worth every penny.
In addition to being unusual Christmas gifts, they are also a fun addition to your Christmas decor. You will be sure to find one or more nutcrackers at Christmas that will reflect your personal style and decorating needs as well as one that suits your holiday budget.
Author Bio: Christmas Decorations & Gifts Store is a Christmas store wonderland that carries a wide variety of nutcrackers christmas including the popular military nutcrackers.
Category: Religion
Keywords: christmas decorations, nutcrackers, christmas ornaments, christmas trees, christmas gifts