German Smokers

Wonderful and Meaningful Gifts

Some Historical Background

Early German smokers were also known as "Räuchermännchen" and they were first seen in the 17th century in southeastern Germany.

Craftsmen were creating these exquisite carvings from single pieces of a wood found in the Miriquidi Forest.

Today these figurines are one of the main sources for revenue in this area. This part of Germany is also referred to as the Erzgebirge Mountains and it was once famed for its silver mines, which created industries and jobs for over two centuries.

a Pastime tradition over centuries

The Rise of these German figurines as Collectibles

The people did not want to give up their ways of mountain and forest life to move to the cities and they were pleased to discover that their German smokers, nutcracker figures and other hand carved items were able to be sold easily in the marketplace.

The Erzgebirge Mountains became known as the best place in Europe to collect toys and wooden art collectibles. These pieces were not only sought by people in Europe but throughout the world.

Christmas Traditions

Famous Makers of the "Incense Figurines"

This area of Europe was to depend upon the woodworking industry they had created during the years of World War II. While the Erzgebirge area was producing uranium for military and industrial use, it was the wooden toys and figures that were bringing income to the people.

Families and esteemed woodcrafters began to create their own lines with distinctive features.

People around the world readily recognize the quality of these gift items that are emblazoned with the famous family names of Glasser, Steinbach, Dregeno, or Mueller.

A History of the Construction

At one time, the first of the German Räuchermännchen was constructed of one piece of wood and the incense was burned on a small tray that was placed near the figurine.

In the 18th century a smoker was made of two fitted pieces of wood and this allowed the insertion of the new incense cones that could be lit and would burn slowly, letting the smoke issue forth from the mouth of the figure. This is how people now expect these pieces to look and work.

The Appeal of German Smokers

Not only is a German smoker beloved for the history and connection it has to Germany’s past, they are admired and cherished because the carvings represent regular people.

These are not figures of politicians or famous men, but they are carved to show images of workers and laborers.

These representations of the hardworking, everyday man have transformed the smokers into wonderful icons for all to relate to and enjoy. There is little doubt that German smokers are indeed the perfect German gift to give or receive.