Copyright © 2003 Shoemaker Woodcarving
1850 St. Nicholas.
Details
With base and an animal of your choice in each pocket. Carved bag on back with six or more toys, all carved separately. A jester on a stick is in one hand. 14 inches
Bishop of Myra.
Circa 343 A.D. Born in the town of Patras, Turkey, he was called “The Boy Bishop” and was renowned for his extreme kindness and generosity. He is considered the patron saint of children, sailors, and animals. He is often accompanied by Black Peter and riding a white horse. 9 ¼ inch
Civil War St. Nicholas.
With base and hand carved back basket of horns, drums, cannon. Circa 1860’s, he was very important to both the blue and the gray and was probably the only thing they mutually agreed on. He was often used as a recruiting figure. 9 1/2 inches
English Wassailing St. Nicholas.
With wassailing bowl. This is another version of the English custom of offering up “the blowing bowl” or wassailing bowl which is an elaboration of an old celtic tradition; drinking to one’s health. 8 inches
Father Christmas.
With animals in pockets, doll in hand, and bag on back with Sisal tree and toys. He is Great Britain’s version of St. Nicholas as a cross over figure from the Satuanalists who worshipped the midwinter solstice. 8 inches
Father Christmas Pulling a Sled.
Father Christmas Pulling a Sled Sled is hand carved with doll and a dog riding in it. Father Christmas can be any color. 8 1/2 inches
Flashing Santa.
Flashing Santa with leopard skin lined coat, designer label, and tattoo on leg. Another Shoemaker innovation with a touch of humor. The tattoo can say anything you want it to. 7 ½ inch
French St Colas.
Hand carved grape gathering basket containing french bread, cheese, and wine. The grape gathering basket is indicative of the fine wines, breads, and cheeses of France. 8 inches
La Befana.
La Befana was called “The Lady Gift Giver of Italy.” She carries a hand carved basket of apples and oranges and a broom in her hand. The magi, on their way to Bethlehem, invited her to join them but she was too busy cleaning. By the time she decided to go, she could not find them and got lost. Now she wanders around the countryside giving gifts. Because she gives coal to naughty children, she is often portrayed as a witch. 7 ¼ inch
Medieval St. Nicholas.
Circa 1300 AD with a bag with toys and a staff in his hand. The tales of great deeds attributed to St. Nicholas were carried across Europe by wandering minstrels, crusaders, and gypsies. After 1300 AD, instead of a dark beard, he was visualized with a long white beard and sometimes riding a horse through the sky. Can be ordered in any color. 7 inches
Mini Santas.
Shown here are a few of the many creations from original sketches. Many are one of a kind. Can be ordered in any color. Those shown here are 3 ½ to 4 inches.
