Big Black Forest hand carved gnome - you know how rare the gnomes are to source! This one is so fun. Dating c.1910-20, this hand carved wood Black Forest gnome is in remarkably nice condition apart from old evidence of the natural wood worm exit from the wood used. You can see the small dots which are holes, primarily there on his apron in front. There is no pithiness at all, just that look of antique European wood. That said, the 14" tall barkeep gnome with his beer and apron and beard stands at the ready, hinged at his waist, he opens to reveal a compartment for pipe tobacco, or perhaps to hold cheroots or small cigars.
Very good for age and type, he hasn't any chips to disclose, no breaks and no splits in the old forest wood. The base is sturdy at 6 3/8" x 4 3/4" oval, and, as noted, he stands a hair under 14". The hinge is good, works fine, has no damage nor chip or break to the wood. Our photos show him well.
