Ljungstroms of Sweden Tomte Gnome Santa Figurine - Large Grandpa in Rocker

Large sized Ljungströms tomten gnomes figurine #8081 Grandpa tomte holds a staff while relaxing in his rocking chair. Knitted red outfit and soft sheep’s wool beard. Original sticker bottom. About 6.5” tall, 6” wide. PLEASE NOTE: this is an older figure and the original glue used has some browning from age, noticeable where beard is attached (see detail). Very good from smoke free storage.

A “tomte" is a figure from Swedish folklore often depicted as a small, bearded man wearing a gray robe and a pointy red cap. The tomte is believed to be the spirit of the first farmer on a homestead and is responsible for the well-being of the farm, its animals, and its land. While protective, they are also mischievous, known to play pranks if they feel insulted or disrespected, such as braiding the tails of cattle. They don't require much from the household, but they do demand respect and a special bowl of porridge with butter on Christmas Eve.