Description
‘Berne’ The Gnome
From our Black Forest collection, we are delighted to offer this rare Swiss Black Forest carving of a tobacco jar shaped as a gnome. The Gnome stands proud wearing a green apron, hooded top with a large stein in his right hand and his left hand resting in his pocket. The jar is hinged at waistline of the Gnome allowing access to the tobacco store within the hollowed out body. The tobacco jar is signed to the bottom in the centre with the Gnomes nickname ‘Berne’ dates to the late 19th century circa 1890.
Literature
See Swiss Carving The Art of ‘Black Forest’ 1820-1940, page 166, model M12608 for the near identical carved figure from retailers Meiringer Holzschchnitzerei.
Black Forest Carvings
Swiss Black Forest carvings are highly collectible hand-carved works of art, originating from Brienz, Switzerland in the 19th century. Typically crafted from linden wood or walnut, these pieces feature intricate depictions of animals, daily Alpine life, and whimsical figures. Popular subjects include bears, stags, dogs, eagles, and boars, with rarer animals and larger carvings commanding premium value. Collectors prize quality, realistic detailing, original glass eyes, and occasional carvers’ signatures, all of which significantly enhance desirability.
For further information please see our article on Swiss Black Forest Carvings.
Measurements
34cm High x 15.5cm Wide x 14cm Deep ( 13.4 x 6.1 x 5.5 Inches approximately)
Condition
Very Good antique condition
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