Rauchermen (German Smokers), originated around 1600s in the Miriquidi Forest area of South-East Germany and making them continues today as a much loved tradition, especially at Christmas time. They burn small cones of incense and the vapour comes out of their mouths.
Most German smokers comprise of two parts. The base where you place the incense cone and then once lit, the lid is placed over top. The lid is hollow so that the incense smoke can dissipate. German smokers made to resemble a house would almost certainly force smoke through the chimney. For figures depicting the average working man, miner or sea captain, for instance – may be designed so the smoke exits through the mouth.
This is where the term “smoking man” is derived from when referring to these ornaments. The current, most common type of German smoker is of the two-piece variety,
Information courtesy of https://frankenmuthclock.com/blogs/news/the-history-of-german-incense-smokers
Well worth a read about these delightful ornaments. Just click on the link.
These are just a few of the hand crafted German Smokers I have completed for customers. Each are assembled from approx 13 (including hat) separately turned pieces. They appear quite popular and I am happy to make them to order, in any uniform or style you require. If you would like to know more or discuss an idea just complete the contact form without any obligation.