Rare Antique Papier-mâché German Belsnickle Christmas Santa Claus With Sleigh

  

Early papier-mâché Santa Claus figurines were made from a composite material of primarily paper, adhesive, and paint. Originally costing only a few cents apiece, they were not intended to endure a long life. Many papier-mâché Santas were filled with candy and broken open to reach it. Other figurines sustained damage or easily deteriorated over time. Therefore, the lucky ones that survived are quite collectible today.

However, some include the country of origin on the bottom, which can help estimate age. Most early papier-mâché Santas with a "Made in Germany" stamp were manufactured during the late 1800s to early 1900's. This rare Belsnickle has a snow covers coat and he is pulling a wooden sleigh on a mica snow covered platform. One stick to the sleigh is attached but split could be repaired and Belsnickle has come unglued from platform but could be reattached.

His paper Mache face is intact with some aging. His hands are intact and it good shape. Belsnickle is 9.5 inches tall and total display length is 17 inches. During the late 1800s to early 1900s, most papier-mâché Santa figurines were made by German toy manufacturers.

These included companies like Gebruder Heubach, Marolin, and Ino Schaller. Some early examples are stamped "Made in Germany" on the bottom.