This is an International Santa known as "Kwanzaa" from International Resourcing. It is the African Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. Kwanzaa is a celebration created in 1966 to help strengthen and bond African-Americans through studying the unique human struggle that is at the heart of African-American culture. The celebration is patterned after traditional African harvest festivals. Families and communities are drawn together to examine their achievements and set goals for the future. There are seven main symbols associated with Kwanzaa: 1). Mkeka - The straw mat represents the foundations of life. 2). Kinara - The candle holder represents the original stalk, the beginnings of African ancestry and genealogy. 3). Muhindi - Ears of corn - One for every child, rep- resents the challenges and hopes of the offspring. 4). Mazao - Crops(fruits,nuts,vegetables) - represents the products of collective effort. 5). Zawadi - Gifts - Given to children on the first day of the New Year to encourage growth, learning, and de- velopment. 6). Kikombe cha umojo - The unity cup used exclusively for pouring libations to the ancestors. 7). Mishumaa saba - The seven candles(three red, one black,three green) represent seven principles(Nguzo saba): *Umoja - unity *Kujiichha gulia - self determination *Ujima - collective work and responsibility *Ujamaa - cooperative economics *Nia - purpose *Kuumba - creativity *Imani - faith A Kwanzaa celebration consists of rituals, food, cele- bration, and farewell statements. Decorations for the assembly should include corn, fruits, gourds, or other symbols of harvest. Red, green, and black are used to represent fire and determination, earth and hope, and the power of the people, respectively. Kwanzaa is observed over the seven-day period from December 26 through January 1st. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-3/4" tall and 3" wide. It is marked "SC15, Kwanzaa,Africa, 1994, Internationational Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "St. Nick" from International Resourcing. This is a bonus pack which in- cludes the figurine and the matching ornament. It is the Australia Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wearing a red stocking cap trimmed with holly and red berries, a red and white striped shirt, red swim trunks trimmed in gold, and flipflops. He is carrying a blue bag of toys decorated with gold stars in one hand and a drum in the other. There is a basket of toys on the ground beside him. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/4" wide. It is marked "SCO29s,Old St.Nick,1997,IRS".
This is an International Santa ornament known as "St. Nick" from International Resourcing. It is the Australia Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wearing a red stocking cap trimmed with holly and red berries, a red and white striped shirt, red swim trunks trimmed in gold, and flipflops. He is carrying a blue bag of toys decorated with gold stars in one hand and a drum in the other. There is a basket of toys on the ground beside him. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 3" tall and 1-1/2" wide. It is marked "SCO29,Old St. Nick,1997,IRS".
This is an International Santa known as "St. Nicholas" from International Resourcing. It is the Austria Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wearing a red mitre with a red cross, a red fur trimmed cape over a white gown with gold crisscrossed sleeves. He is carrying a holly and red bow decorated wreath and gold staff. There is a blue bag of toys on the ground behind him. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/4" wide. It is marked "SC20,St. Nicholas,1995,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". He is in his original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Budelfrau" from International Resourcing. It is the helper of the Austrian Santa "St. Nicholas". The International Santa Claus Collec- tion has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. She is wearing a red, holly decorated cap, patched red coat, and white and pale blue dresses over each other, black boots, and a grey patched scarf around her shoulders. She is carrying a bagful of toys and a broom with a dove on her shoulder. There is a cat and a basketful of apples at her feet. Budelfrau stands ready to do the "dirty work" for St. Nicholas, if it is necessary. She is St. Nicholas' very willing female helper when he makes his rounds in Lower Austria every Christmas Eve. She carries a bundle of switches so she'll be able to exact punishment with a spanking if she and Santa should encounter any boys or girls who have been less than good citizens in the pre- vious year. Austrian parents use Budelfrau switches as a warning to their offspring to behave, do their schoolwork, keep themselves and their rooms clean, and generally do as they are told during the weeks before Christmas. But in practice this jolly figure sel- dom has to do much more than chuckle and wave her switches back and forth. Sometimes Santa and Budelfrau also arrive with a devilish figure called Krampus, a horned creature with a shaggy coat. All in all, these three make quite a spectacle for Austrian youngsters to imagine as Christmas Eve approaches. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC55,Budelfrau,Austria, 2002,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". She is in her orig- inal box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Old Nick" from International Resourcing. It is the Belgium Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. This is a bonus pack that includes the figurine and the matching ornament. He is wearing a green fur trimmed cap with a matching coat and black boots. His coat has a small teddy in its pocket. He is carrying a blue package in his right hand and a batch of switches in his left hand. He is carrying a basket of toys on his left arm. There are sev- eral packages at his feet. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2" wide. It is marked "SC25,Old Nick,1995,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box.
This is an International Santa ornament known as "Old Nick" from International Resourcing. It is the Belgium Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wear- ing a green fur trimmed cap with a matching coat and black boots. His coat has a small teddy in its pocket. He is carry- ing a blue package in his right hand and a batch of switches in his left hand. He is carrying a basket of toys on his left arm. There are several packages at his feet. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 3" tall and 1-1/2" wide. It is marked "SCO25,Old Nick,1997,IRS".
This is an International Santa known as "Padre Nicholas" from International Resourcing. It is the Brazilian Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discon- tinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wearing a gold trimmed green vest over a white shirt, red pants, black boots, and a holly decorated red hat. He is carrying a tan bag full of toys over his shoulder. He is holding a child's white shoe in his left hand and is sur- rounded by toys and gifts at his feet. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/4" tall and 2" wide. It is marked "SCO22,Padre Nicholas,Brazil,1996, International Resourcing Services". He is in his original box.
This is an International Santa known as "Belsnickle" from International Resourcing. It is the Canada Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. This is a bonus pack that includes the figurine and the matching ornament. He is wearing a cranberry fur trimmed cap with a matching coat and brown boots. He has a blue and yellow scarf around his neck and a brown belt. He is carrying a hatchet in his right hand and a Christmas tree decorated with candles and a star on top in his left hand. There is a bag of toys on his at his feet. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC28S, Belsnickle, 1997, Internationational Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Pere Noel" from International Resourcing. It is the French Canada Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wear- ing a red fur trimmed cap with a matching coat and black boots. He is carrying a bag of toys with several toys hanging from his black belt. There is a goose at his feet. French culture and language add richness and charm to the holiday traditions of Quebec, Canada. While English-speaking Canadians await the visit of Father Christmas or Santa Claus, the French Canadians, who represent 25% of the nation's population, look forward to the arrival of "Pere Noel" or, in alternate years, the visit of "Petit Noel", the infant Jesus. When "Pere Noel" arrives on the scene, he sports a long red robe that contrasts with his snow-white hair and beard. Somewhat thinner than the traditional American Santa Claus. "Pere Noel" looks as if he could easily fit down most chimneys to deliver his bulging bag of toys and treats. French Canadians also enjoy a very festive New Year's Day celebra- tion, the day when their children finally receive their gifts from "Pere Noel" or "Petit Noel". Whether they travel across the country or just stop in to visit the neighbors next door, French Canadians consider New Year's a wonderful time to spend with loved ones and friends. What's more, on New Year's Day every child is expected to ask his or her father for a special blessing. Even grown children living far away often travel home to participate in this wonderful tradition. Attending church, eating a wonderful meal, and singing and dancing round out the New Year's celebrations. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC67,Pere Noel,French Canada, 2003". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Veijo Pascuero" from International Resourcing. It is the Chile Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wear- ing a short red jacket over a white shirt with a green tie and off-white cumberbund, tan pants. grey boots trimmed in red, green, and gold, and a wide-brimmed brown hat. He is carrying a small decorated tree. He has a llama next to him carrying a basket of toys on his saddlebags. "Veijo Pascuero", or Old Man Christmas, brings the gifts to youngsters in Chile, where Christmas traditions take on a definite Spanish flavor. When the Spaniards arrived in South America over 400 years ago, they brought with them their Christian celebrations including the wonderful nine-night fes- tival of Las Posadas. Posada means "lodging" in Spanish, and thus these posadas are played out as processions through town, searching for a "room at the Inn". When the procession is re- ceived in a home, everyone says a prayer and then there is a party with food, fruit punch, singing and games, including the breaking of the pinata. Before "Veijo Pascuero" arrives, most Chilean families set up their own nacimientos, or nativity scenes. Everyone in the family works together to arrange the pieces, just as North American families gather to put up and decorate the Christmas tree. All the figures are placed with great care, but the Christ Child is reserved until Christmas Eve, when he is placed in his manger. Chimneys are small in Chile, so "Veijo Pascuero" is more likely to climb in a window bearing gifts and toys. Dressed as a cross between Santa and a gaucho, he looks wonderfully festive in his outfit of red, black, green, tan, and white. We can imagine him arriving in his reindeer-drawn sleigh, with his trusty llama bearing the gifts on a saddle pack. Meanwhile, the family awaits his arrival by eating their Christmas Eve meal of chicken soup and pan de pasqua, a fruited Christmas bread. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC36, Veijo Pascuero,Chile,1998". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Nice Old Father" from International Resourcing. It is the China Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. This is a Bonus Pack which includes the figurine and matching orna- ment. He is wearing a knee-length red jacket, trimmed in yellow and green, over green pants, red shoes decorated in green, and gold, and straw-looking hat. He is carrying a blue and red lantern in one hand and a blue stocking filled with toys in the other. There is a overflowing basket full of toys next to him. While the Christmas tradition is not normally associated with Chinese culture, our shrinking world has enabled Chinese folks to pick up on many Christmas traditions and weave them into their year-end celebrations. The closest thing to Santa Claus in Chinese lore and legend is a character called Nice Old Father and he endears himself to the youngsters by providing special gifts in colorful stockings that the children make and hang up for his approval. Instead of Western-style decorations like fir trees and wreaths, the Chinese holiday adornments tend toward Chinese lanterns and other light producing ornaments. The lanterns are hung to prepare for Christmas revelry, in which fireworks play a major part. Youngsters and their parents compete to see who can stage the most dramatic, most beautiful, and noisiest fireworks shows. Good eating and entertainment accompany the fireworks to round out the festivities And of course, Nice Old Father makes sure he's a prominent participant, dressed in his mandarin hat and shoes with the traditional, upturned toes and carrying his own Chinese lantern to light the way! It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/2" wide. The box is marked "SC23S, Nice Old Father,China, 1996". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Santa Espana" from International Resourcing. It is the Costa Rica Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wearing a green vest, trimmed in gold and black, over a white shirt with a red tie, red pants, and black boots decorated in gold, and straw-looking wide- brimmed hat. He is pushing a colorful black, green, and gold cart filled with toys. The people of the Central American country known as Costa Rica enjoy a cultural blend of Hispanic, Native Indian and North American influences. At holiday time they bring their many customs together in a mix of colorful fun. In past generations, children used to leave their shoes out for the Christ Child to fill on Christmas Eve, but today the American influence of "Santa Claus" has made "Old St. Nick" more likely to be expected as the bearer of holiday treasures. Dressed in bright clothing with a straw hat and high black boots, this jolly fellow travels over cobblestone streets with his brightly painted cart full of toys, musical instruments, and other gifts for Costa Rican youngsters, or so the legend goes. During his travels, Santa can admire the many wonderful holiday decorations that are traditioal in this country, including wild orchids and other tropical flowers, a manger scene called a portal, and wreaths made of cypress leaves and red coffee berries. While waiting for Santa's arrival, Costa Rican families often enjoy a supper after Midnight Mass consisting of tamales and other local dishes. Then the youngsters tuck into bed to await the morning and their wonderful gifts. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 3" long. It is marked "SC41, Santa Espana,Costa Rica,1999,International Resourcing". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "St. Basil" from International Resourcing. It is the Cypress Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wear- ing a purple cap with a matching coat over a white gown and black shoes. He is carrying a basket of goodies over his shoulder and a list in his hand. He is also carrying a small branch in his other hand. There is a table next to him with grapes, a bottle of wine and some treats. An elf is sitting next to him in front of the table. Holiday time in Cyprus begins December 6, the Feast of Saint Nicholas, and ends January 6, the Epiphany. On the day and evening before Christmas, children will go house to house to sing beautiful carols known as "Kalanda", which date to By- zantine times. These kalandas are a blessing to the household, and the people who are saying the kalandas often receive gifts. Blessings are important and perhaps necessary as the mythical sprites call Kalikantzari might get into mischief around the house. On New Year's Eve, as on Christmas Eve, grown ups as well as children go from house to house singing the New Year's Kalanda, similar to those of Christmas but with different lyrics. They spread the good wishes of the season and proclaim that "St. Basil is coming from Cesaeria". St. Basil, one of the fore- fathers of the Greek Orthodox Church, is remembered for his kindness and generosity to the poor. He is thought to have died on January 1, so he is honored this day. Unlike in the Western tradition, gifts are exchanged on "St. Basil's Day" or New Year's Day, commemorating the gifts that St. Basil brought to the poor children of the villages of Asia Minor where he lived. St. Basil is said to visit every house on New Year's Eve or Day and expects to be offered something. Much like the western tradition of leaving something for Santa, Greeks leave food on the table for St. Basil. Tradition says the more abundant the table, the more abundant with good luck the family will be. In some regions, families may leave a place setting for him, in case he decides to join the family for dinner. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/4" tall and 3" wide. It is marked "SC83,St. Basil,Cypress,2005". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa helper known as "Juul Nisse" from International Resourcing. It is the Denmark Santa "Julemanden's" helper. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since Interna- tional Resourcing closed its doors. He is wearing a red coat and stocking hat trimmed in white, with black boots and gloves. He is carrying a lit candle and a bag of toys over his shoulder. There is a white cat behind him and an elf sitting on the ground next to him. Christmas Eve in Denmark begins with a glorious feast, served in anticipation of the arrival of Julemanden, this Scandinavian land's traditional gift-bearer, along with his mischievous helper, "Juul Nisse." After the family enjoys many courses of festive fare, a special dessert of rice pudding is served. A single almond is baked into this treat, and the one person who receives the almond is pre- dicted to enjoy good luck for the full year to come! On Christmas Eve, Danish children burn the last little portion of their 24-spaced calendar candle, one space for every day from the first of December to Christmas Eve. Other youngsters open the final window on their Advent Calendars, revealing the last of 24 small daily gifts of candy, a toy, or gum. Still another Christmas Eve custom is to share cookies and other treats served on pretty and collectible blue and white Copenhagen plates. Then at last, Julemanden arrives in his reindeer-drawn sleigh. Good boys and girls are thrilled to imagine the bulky sack of gifts on his back. If they are lucky, they may also spy a few of Julemanden's elderly "Juul Nisser", or Christmas sprites. According to rumor, these characters live in people's attics when they're not helping out at Christmastime. "Jule Nisser" prefer the dark, so Danes who want to discourage their presence light their homes with lots of candles! It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/4" tall and 2-3/4" wide. It is marked "SC71, Juul Nisser, Denmark,2004". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Father Christmas" from International Resourcing. It is the England Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is has a crown of holly on his head and is wearing a red fur trimmed coat and black boots. He is holding up a gold goblet in one hand and has fruit in one of his coat pockets. He is carring a basket of toys on his back and fruit and packages on the ground around him. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-3/4" tall and 2" wide. It is marked "SC02, Father Christmas,1992,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". He is in his original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Jouluvana" from International Resourcing. It is the Estonia Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. As part of the United States of America, Alaska now em- braces many of the customs of the "lower 48"--yet this vast land puts its own twist on things, in keeping with its Eskimo heritage. "Eskimo Santa and Snow Baby" pay tribute to the climate and customs of Alaska, yet many elements remain familiar to those who know the American Santa Claus. To make their way across the "frozen tundra", both Santa and his snow baby helper wear snowshoes. Santa's coat is a furry brown color instead of the more familiar red, yet his red pants and cap, and the fur trimmings of his outfit all seem in keeping with our traditional Amer- ican notions of St. Nick. The familiar sack of toys is very much in evidence, but the snow baby is something spe- cial...added to emphasize the arctic weather and culture of this northernmost American State. This sweet blonde cherub wears an outfit to echo that of Santa himself, but hers is candy pink with white fur trim. She carries her own supply of gifts on a sled and in her arms, and a husky puppy peeks out from behind. Will he soon become a very special present for some lucky youngster? It is in excellent condi- tion; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 3" wide. It is marked "SC59,Eskimo Santa & Snow Baby,Eskimo, 2002,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Jouluvana" from International Resourcing. It is the Estonia Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. On Christmas Eve in Estonia, this gnome-like Santa known as “Jouluvana” brings sweets and fruits to good boys and girls, and piles these gifts into and around the youngsters’ slippers. To help “Jouluvana” in his efforts, the children put their slippers on the windowsill before bed. Estonians hold their religious Christmas traditions very dear, yet they also embrace some modern and secular habits at holiday time. Advent calendars serve as the first signs of Christmas in many homes. You might also see families making Christmas crowns that resemble small church chandeliers. On December 24th, it’s tradition for the President of Estonia to declare Christmas Peace during attendance at a Christmas religious service. This ritual began in the 17th century by order of Queen Kristina of Sweden. Estonians will tell you that it’s important to keep all brooms especially clean during Advent because of devils that steal dirty broom sticks and fly around during the Christmas season, playing tricks. Now that the domination of the Soviet Union has been lifted, all of these holiday traditions flourish once again along with the special additions of the Catholics, Russian Orthodox and Lutheran fami- lies. Depending on what family you visit at Christmas, you may enjoy fried goose with apples, fried turkey, pork and Sauerkraut, Pipparkogid cookies, a fireworks display, or a recitation of poetry. He is carrying several gifts in a large basket along with a handful of holly. There is also a pair of boots holding small wrapped gifts. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC68,Jouluvana,Estonia,2003,International Resourcing Services, Inc.". It is in its original box.
This is an International Santa known as "Joulupukki" from International Resourcing. It is the Finland Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wearing a red coat and stocking cap, trimmed in white, red pants trimmed in black, grey boots, and gold wire-rimmed glasses. He is carrying several toys in one hand and his list of good boys and girls in the other. There is an elf standing next to him carrying a bagful of toys. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It mea- sures 4-3/4" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC10, Joulupukki,Finland,1993,International Resourcing Services, Inc.". No box available.
This is an International Santa known as "Pere Noel" from International Resourcing. It is the France Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is holding a staff in one hand and a bunch of greenery in the other. He has a basket full of toys on his back. It It is in good condition. The white pompom on his hat is missing. It measures 4-3/4" tall and 2" wide. It is marked "SC11,Pere Noel,France,1993,International Resourcing Ser- vices,Inc.". He is in his original box.
This is "Aunt Airie" from the International Resourcing Santa Claus collection. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. She is not related to Pere Noel, but according to legend she also brings Christmas gifts to the good boys and girls of France! While Santa has been called a "jolly old elf", the ever-smiling "Aunt Airie" is thought to be a fairy. According to the story handed down from generation to generation, she wears a long flowing cape and travels with a donkey that bears the many presents she brings in a bag he carries on his back. All ready for her holiday travels this year, we see a rosy- cheeked "Aunt Airie" making her appearance in a cape the color of the blue night sky. It's richly decorated with golden stars to complement the golden motif on her ruby-red dress. In her hand she carries a bag to match her fur-trimmed cape and from inside the bag a few small presents peek out. "Aunt Airie" and her donkey friend both wear expressions of joy and anticipation as they get ready to distribute the scores of presents in their roomy brown bag. Even the donkey is wearing his finest; a blanket that combines French fleur-de-lis patterns on deep green along with turquoise, orange, pink, and golden accents. Although "Aunt Airie" is expected on Christmas Eve only in certain regions of France, her charming legend has spread throughout the world! It is marked "SC58,Aunt Airie,France,2002, International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Christkindl" from International Resourcing. It is the Germany Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. In many areas of Germany the Christmas gifts are brought by Christkindl, an angelic messenger of the Christ Child. Although Christkindl is genderless, the character is usually represesented by a fair haired young girl with a golden crown, golden wings, and a flowing white robe, as is this one. She is carrying several gifts in her white robe. It is trimmed in gold. There is what appears to be a large gold bell with a red bow standing next to her. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2" wide. It is marked "SC08,Christkindl,1992,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box.
This is an International Santa known as "Knecht Reprecht" from International Resourcing. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resour- cing closed its doors. Did you ever wonder how Santa has room in his arms to carry all the gifts he brings children in each family he visits? Well, German youngsters know the answer: they believe that Santa's assistant or servant, "Knecht Reprecht", is near at hand to pass out the toys to good children and spank the bad ones with a special rod! Unlike Santa with his velvety robes and elegant accessories, "Knecht Reprecht" wears rough clothing and has a somewhat fierce appearance. His face may look as if it's been blackened by coal or ash--an occupational hazard, perhaps, for someone who slides down so many chimneys. Indeed, some Germans actually call him "ru-klas" or "Rough Nicholas". Legend suggests that his origins may be as a pagan spirit of some type, but today he is solidly Christian, checking children's at- tentiveness to their prayers and punishing them if their scriptural knowledge is lacking. "Knecht Reprecht" is quite the traveler, con- sidering that his legend went along with the first German settlers to Pennsylvania. But on the American side of the Atlantic, he is less fearsome and more of a gentle and serious friend to youngsters. He also makes frequent appearances in Karlsruhe, the Residence-City of the German state of Baden. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 3" wide. It is marked "SC50, Knecht Reprecht,2001,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Weihnachtsmann" from International Resourcing. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resour- cing closed its doors. In modern times, Germany has not one gift bringer, but two. Historically, an angelic childlike creature called Christkindl brought the Christmas gifts, but this figure is slowly being overshadowed by Weihnachtsmann. Weihnachtsmann is the German equivalent of Santa Claus. However, he is not short and fat, but tall and slim, with a long white beard and a full length red robe. He is often pictured carrying a Christmas tree. This is because the Christmas tree is a prominent symbol of Christmas throughout Germany. In some areas of Germany he wears animal skins rather than a robe. Like Christkindl, Weihnachtsmann brings the gifts on Christmas Eve. On that night the parlor is locked and guarded until after supper. When the doors are thrown open, a Christmas tree sur- rounded with gifts is revealed. In Germany, electric lights on the tree are not used, real candles lit only on Christmas Eve are used instead. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC18,Weihnachtsmann, Germany,1994,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is a Ghana International Santa known as "Father Christmas" from International Resourcing. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. The children of Ghana find it difficult to relate to the harsh cold of the North Pole, so their "Father Christmas" arrives instead from the tropical jungles to play his part in their Christmas festivals. His gifts are simple, good things to eat mostly, but his outfit is very elegant. Sandals peek out from under his bright red robe trimmed in golden fabric. A traditional African patterned sash unites the colors of his outfit, and he wears a pale-colored cloak with a hood over his red cap. While Father Christmas is a holdover from Ghana's colonial days, this was the first black African country to gain its independence. Thus, the people there have chosen the traditions they wish to keep from among the European customs, and expanded to encompass their own. In Ghana the Christmas festival includes a special religious service after which young people are given imported chocolates, and cookies and crackers prepared especially for this event. These are said to come from "Father Christmas". Christmas also coincides with harvest time for cocoa, which also is generally known as a time of abundance and good cheer. Friends and relations travel to visit each other, celebrate the Christmas story, and share a wonderful feast. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC56,Father Christmas, Ghana,2002,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Saint Nicholas" from International Resourcing. It is the Greece Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is holding a staff in his right hand and carrying his bag of goodies with his left. He is wearing a purple robe trimmed in brown fur and a gold mitre.
The annual arrival of St. Nicholas in Greece is in keeping with the love of water and boating that characterizes the island nation's inhabitants. Santa comes dressed as a sailor with a long flowing beard and makes his "grand entrance" by boat on December 6. That day is set aside as a time of prayer for the safety of all Greek seamen.
The boat in which St. Nicholas arrives is weighed down by the great gift-giver's pack--filled with food treats to enjoy once the December 6 prayers are complete. All of Greece then begins a "food feast" with joyful celebrations, music, and dancing. A special fruit and nut confection called Saint Basil's pie is baked exclusively for this occasion.
The holiday festivities continue in Greece from December 6 all the way until the New Year begins on January 1. Following Orthodox tradition, gifts are not exchanged until that date; and thus the New Year caps off nearly a month of revelry with the offering of special presents. St. Nicholas plays a part in all the Christmas events in Greece--dressed in the flowing robes and peaked hat that characterize his Grecian persona. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-3/4" tall and 2" wide. It is marked "SC24,Saint Nicholas, Greece,1996,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box.
This is an International Santa known as "Saint Nicholas" from International Resourcing. It is the Greece Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been dis- continued since International Resourcing closed its doors. Greek Christmas celebrants truly enjoy a full "Twelve Days of Christmas" beginning on Christmas Eve and ending on January 6. The holiday rituals combine modern traditions with religious ceremonies that date back to ancient times. The Greek "St. Nicholas" is shown here in his boat, symbolizing his essential part as the patron of Greek seamen. Indeed, the tradition'says that St. Nick's clothing is always soaked with brine, his beard dripping with seawater, and his brow with perspir- ation because of his efforts to save sinking ships. Every self-respecting Greek sailor travels with St. Nick's icon on board. What's more, they all know of a special ritual that is said to tame rough seas. The sailors cast boiled wheat grain, or kollyva, on the water and ask St. Nicholas to "cease his rush". Here we see St. Nick arriving in his little boat, loaded down with toys for Greek youngsters. These children have to be extraordinarily patient, since he does not show up until New Year's Eve day, heralded by carolers and New Year's bells. Christmas Eve and Christmas are spent with role playing, caroling, feasting, and church going. The Christmas feast traditionally includes turkey salad, meat pies, fried pork, spinach pie and fried auber- gines with cheese. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 3-3/4" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC49,Greece,St. Nicholas,2001,International Resour- cing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa from Hungary known as "Santa Claus" from International Resourcing. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. Santa's work has long been done in Hungary by the time December 25 rolls around. He comes to visit on the 6th of December, stopping in at shops, schools, parades and other public places to provide youngsters with gifts-traditionally, chocolates, and other candies in bright red wrappings. With Santa's chores complete, families turn their attention to decorating and feasting as Christmas Day approaches. No more than two weeks before the big day, a Christmas tree is selected, then stored outside in the cold, wrapped to stay fresh until it is decorated. This custom is so much a part of Hungarian lore that apartment dwellers have been known to hang their trees out of their windows or keep them on their balconies for want of a yard or garden! No one actually decorates their tree until December 24th. Everything is closed by 4 p.m. or even earlier, and public trans- portation stops, so everyone gathers at home. The afternoon and early evening are devoted to adorning the tree, after which a light meal is consumed. Immediately after dinner, all the presents are placed under the tree and it is lit in all its splendor. Families spend the rest of the evening together, opening presents and enjoying each other's company before Midnight Mass. The following two days also are holidays, with a festive family meal traditional for Christmas and socializing with a wider circle of friends and family on the 26th. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC44,Santa Claus, Hungary,2000,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa from Iceland known as "Jola Sveinar" from International Resourcing. The International Santa Claus Col- lection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. While many of us envision Santa Claus as a "jolly old elf" with a long, white beard the children of Iceland get their holiday gifts from a much different character: "Jola Sveinar". Actually there is more than one "Jola Sveinar", but all of them appears as sprightly goblins or trolls with funny names like "Bowl Licker", "Door Smeller", or "Window Peeper". The Icelandic folk believe that one of these characters arrives each day for the thirteen days before Christmas- and each one bears a little gift for every child in the household. According to legend, these funny trolls are not very angelic--in fact, they've been known to steal food and candles, and to leave quite a mess in their wake. Many an Icelandic parent has used "Jola Sveinar's" reputation as child stealer to good effect in keeping their youngsters from mischief: it seems that these Christmas lads, as some folks call them, would come back after Christmas and kidnap only the naughty boys and girls. In his peaked cap, bright green knickers, handsome suspenders and striped socks, our "Jola Sveinar" makes a whimsical appearance. He's positively loaded down with gifts, and there are many more at his feet--ready to be loaded into his bright red bag. His jolly smile shows us he can't wait to deliver the presents to his young friends in Iceland! It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 2-1/2" wide. It is marked "SC33,Jola Sveinar, Iceland,1998,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa from Iceland known as "Yule Tide Lad" from International Resourcing. The International Santa Claus Col- lection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. Icelandic youngsters rejoice that there is not just one Santa bringing them gifts at Christmas time, but a total of 13 Jolasveinar, or "Yule Tide Lads" in all! Their individual names are Woodfoot, Canalguy, Shorty, Spoonlicker, Poteater, Askalicker, Doorslammer, Cheese-curds Container, Sausagehooker, Windowpeaking, Smellynose, Meathooker, and Candlesnatcher. Good boys and girls can expect a gift from each of these mountain-dwelling characters-one per day, beginning on December 12th each year. The "Yule Tide Lads" then stay in the lowlands to celebrate Christmas, according to legend, and return to their mountain home on January 6th. Called "the thirteenth" because it is the 13th day after Christmas, that's also the official end of the holidays--when Icelandic people take down the Christmas tree and decorations. Icelandic folks believe that the "Yule Tide "Lads" are descended from two mythological figures called Gryla the Ogre and Leppaludi. While these characters were frightening and even devilish, the Lads are merely mischievous--sup- posedly doing what their names suggest in Icelandic houses when they visit. So homeowners may find their candles snatched, spoons licked, and so on. Meanwhile, Icelandic people celebrate Christmas with a glorious Festival of Lights. Getting and wearing new clothes is a big part of the holiday tradition as well--indeed, legend has it that the malicious Christmas Cat could eat anyone not dressed in their best on Christmas! On Christmas Day, Icelandic families make their visits to loved ones, and then return back home to discover the "Yule Tide Lads" final gift! It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 5-1/4" tall and 2-1/4" wide. It is marked "SC45,Yule Tide Lad, Iceland,2000,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
This is an International Santa known as "Irish Father Christmas" from International Resourcing. It is the Irish Santa. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. He is wearing a green fur-trimmed coat and a green hat. He is carrying a teddy bear, a trumpet, and candy canes in one hand and a pipe in the other. His coat pocket is full of small bags of toys with a large bag of toys at his feet. It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/4" tall and 2-1/4" wide. It is marked "SCO16, Irish Father Christmas,Ireland,1995,International Resourcing Services". He is in his original box.
This is an International Santa from Ireland known as "Irish Santa Claus" from International Resourcing. The International Santa Claus Collection has been discontinued since International Resourcing closed its doors. Faith and Begorrah! Who could make a more ideal little helper for Santa Claus in Ireland than a joyful little leprechaun? Santa's tiny helper has brought along his famous pot of gold, of course ....and he's even decorated it for Christmas with a big red bow and a sprig of holly with bright red berries. True to his Irish roots, our Santa Claus friend selects a Kelly green costume rather than red-and with his snappy top hat and fur-trimmed waistcoat he certainly makes a handsome appearance! A true outdoorsman, Santa poses with some of his favorite woodland friends: lots of sweet little birds, a bunny with a red holiday bow around his neck, and even one bold birdie who's perched atop Santa's chapeau. Although Santa wears a happy smile, he must be calling on all his strength to lift the enormous bag of toys he's prepared to share with good boys and girls throughout the Emerald Isle. Inside we see musical instruments, a doll, a rocking horse, fruits and candies and all manner of other goodies to make youngsters' dreams come true. With a wreath of holly tucked close to his chest and a few extra gifts stuffed into his side pocket, Santa and his leprechaun sidekick are all set for a big night of sharing Christmas cheer! It is in excellent condition; no chips or cracks. It measures 4-1/2" tall and 3" wide. It is marked "SC61,Father Christmas, Ireland,2002,International Resourcing Services,Inc.". It is in its original box and packing.
