RUPRECHT (KNECHT RUPRECHT)

HUMMEL 473

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Ruprecht was first modeled by master sculptor Gerhard Shrobek in 1986 under the name of "Father Christmas." It has an incised 1987 copyright date. He was released in the spring of 1997 in a limited edition of 20,000 pieces.
He is a companion figurine to "St. Nicholas' Day", Hummel 2012 that had been originally released and sold to M.I. Hummel Club members together for the price of $1000. He stands 6 1/4" tall and he is signed by master painter Thomas Gunther in June 1998
A little info here on Ruprecht... In most of Europe St. Nicholas is usually accompanied or preceded by an assistant, usually a demonic figure who punishes naughty children. In Germany, the grim helper is known as Knecht Ruprecht. In Holland he is named Black Pete. French youngsters fear the loathsome St. Fouettard. All these characters carry sticks, switches or whips to terrorize wayward youngsters.

Dutch settlers brought the tradition of "Sinterklass" across the Atlantic to their new homes in America -- luckily, Black Pete was left behind or else we'd be conducting Christmas a little differently now. But if you want to read more...check out St. Nicholas Day.

Last Updated: 1DEC01