Franz Karl

In 2000, the company Franz Karl GmbH was taken over by the manufactory Blank Kunsthandwerk which is known above all for its popular “Faltenrock-Engel” (pleated skirt angels). The beautiful smokers, nutcrackers and Christmas pyramids once designed by Franz Karl are now lovingly handcrafted by Blank Kunsthandwerk so that this beautiful piece of Erzgebirge tradition can be carried further into the homes of the world.

Franz Karl Christmas pyramids

The 1-tier Christmas pyramids by Franz Karl are characterized by the skilful use of light-dark contrasts and a modern design. The pyramids illustrate classical themes such as the “Nativity Scene”, the “Carolers” with songbooks or a few peacefully grazing deer. The cheerfully colored model “Children's Christmas”, shows Santa Claus next to the Christmas tree pulling a sleigh full of presents for the children which are playing in colourful clothes under the pointed roof of a half-timbered house. The 3-Tier Pyramid “Nativity” is designed in a traditional way, but with an unusual and fresh colour scheme. On the three levels there are angels, shepherds and the resting Christ Child with mother, father and the Three Holy Kings. The light wood contrasts beautifully with the light green and light red elements of the fences and candlesticks. The impeller is also cheerfully colored.

Franz Karl Smokers and Smoking Stoves

They look friendly as well as cosy and like to smoke a pipe or even a cigar: Franz Karl's Smokers are designed with great attention to detail and equipped with characteristic features. There is the “Accountant” with pen, notebook and bills in his arms, or the stern looking “Manager” in a suit with briefcase in one hand and mobile phone in the other. The chubby, friendly “Captain” with sabre, flag and splendid uniform may have caught a glimpse of the “Woman with Apron and Pot”, who serves coffee in the same friendly way. The smoking stoves of Franz Karl are just as suitable for year-round decoration as the smokers. The contented cat in front of the smoking stove enjoys the cosy warmth. A colourfully painted pot with a delicacy is simmering on the stove. The smoking stoves are available in a size of 14.5 cm and in the colours green and black.

Franz Karl Nutcracker

In addition to some traditional “Horseman Hussars” motifs on their rocking horses - incidentally, a historical peculiarity that emerged in the 1930s from a model sold as a “winter aid badge” for the benefit of poorer families - the two nutcrackers “Mountain Climber” and “Englishman” are also part of the range. While the Mountain Climber is equipped with rope, hoe and green hiking gear, the British guard soldier carries his rifle firmly on his body. The proud Beefeater does all credit to the royal-red uniform with a high fur cap. Despite their differences, both variants show the typical red-and-white nutcracker teeth and thus instill the necessary respect.