Ljungstroms of Sweden Tomte Gnome Santa Figurine - Large Piggyback Rider

Large sized Ljungströms tomten gnomes figurine has a whimsical pose with a smaller tomte hanging on the hat of a larger bearded one. Knitted outfits with ribbon trim and soft sheep’s wool beard. Original sticker bottom. About 8” tall. PLEASE NOTE: this is an older figure and the original glue used has some browning from age, noticeable on the smaller figures hands, and the sides of the grandpa’s sweater (see detail photos) otherwise 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.