Our Duck Hunting Santa Ornament stands 5½ inches tall and hangs from a gold cord. Santa is very happy to have some time off to pursue a favorite pass time as he carries his rifle and his duck decoy. Santa is wearing his favorite camouflage hunting cap, a long sleeved light tan shirt under his tan fishing vest, dark blue pants, black boots and a black belt. This ornament can either stand alone on your mantle piece or a shelf or hang on your Christmas Tree. Select this link to view our Hunting Christmas Ornaments.
Nineteenth Century Hunting
In the 19th century southern and central European hunters often pursued game only for a trophy, usually the head or pelt of an animal, to be displayed as a sign of prowess. The rest of the animal was often wasted.[citation needed] In contrast, in relatively scarcely populated northern Europe, hunting has remained the tradition of the common people, and one reason for it remains as a means of acquiring meat, although the standard of living does not require this.[citation needed] In the Nordic countries, hunting for trophies was, and still is, frowned upon, but an impressive trophy is considered a bonus. This is perhaps the most common practice of modern hunters worldwide. Hunting in North America in the 19th century was done primarily as a way to supplement food supplies, although it is now undertaken mainly for sport. The safari method of hunting was a development of sport hunting that saw elaborate travel in Africa, India and other places in pursuit of trophies. In modern times, trophy hunting persists and is, in some areas, a significant industry. Select this link to view our Fish Ornament.
Old World Christmas Santa Claus
Santa Claus truly represents a veritable melting pot of cultures, beliefs and traditions. As immigrants arrived in the New World centuries ago, along with their hopes and dreams for a better future, they brought with them their beliefs and customs surrounding the holidays. The Germans brought their Belznickel and Christkindl, the Scandinavians their gift giving elves and the Dutch introduced the Sinterklaas, all representing the celebration of St. Nicholas. Select this link to view our People and Profession Tree Ornaments.
The American legend of Santa Claus embodies childhood innocence and magical delight, as Santa Claus is the bearer of gifts and treats for children everywhere. With his home at the wintry North Pole, he and his merry elves created the toys that put the magic into the holidays. He was a kind and gentle figure, and starry eyed children awaited his annual visit with spirited anticipation.
The legend of Santa Claus is derived in part from the benevolent European figure St. Nicholas, and in part from American writers who wrote children’s poems in the nineteenth century. Clement Moore, who wrote “A Visit From St. Nicholas” in 1822, and Thomas Nast, the famed political cartoonist who depicted Santa Claus in the 1860’s as an elfin figure, contributed greatly to this fantasy. Their descriptions of the jolly man clad in red and white created the folk hero children around the world dream about on Christmas Eve. This American patron saint of children certainly brings joy and delight to all during the holidays. Select this link to view our Collectible Santa Figurines.