Bittersweet House Folk Art Chalkware German Belsnickle Santa Intricate Pennsylvania Dutch Fraktur Design Cat# S609 Click on images for larger view The art of molding plaster of paris into holiday treasures is a centuries-old German tradition. This piece represents the pinnacle of historical storytelling through folk art. Handcrafted by artist Kathryn Campbell, this Santa features an **intricate Pennsylvania Dutch Fraktur design.** The coat is a canvas for traditional motifs, including the **Distelfink** (the bird of good fortune), symmetrical hearts, and blooming floral vines. Artistry A masterpiece of Fraktur tradition, the coat features the iconic Distelfink—the Pennsylvania German bird of good luck—hand-painted amidst flourishing vines and hearts. The symmetrical heart and floral motifs are inspired by 18th-century birth and marriage certificates (Fraktur-Schriften), bringing a sense of historical blessing to this holiday figure." **Of special note:** This piece is cast in chalkware using a rare antique German chocolate mold. The painting style mimics the aged parchment and vibrant natural pigments of 18th-century American folk art. Each piece is hand-signed, dated, and numbered. See more unique items from Bittersweet House Folk Art featured in Wendy Mullen's new book "The Comprehensive Guide to Chocolate Molds: Objects of Art & Artists' Tools"