The History of Gnomes
You might already be familiar with the word garden gnomes, but are you familiar with their history? Well, this tradition may be older than what you think. Gnomes first came into vogue in the 1800s. Presently, most of these garden accessories are made of plaster or plastic. However, their initial appearance was quite different from what they are today. In this post, we will explore the history of gnomes.
A brief history to get you introduced
It was in the early 1800s that the first garden gnomes were manufactured in Germany. Initially, clay was used to make these gnomes. In England, the first gnomes appeared in the 1840s. Then, in the 1870s, Germany witnessed the mass-production of gnomes. August Heissner and Philipp Griebel pioneered this art, with the former becoming famed across the world.
During the World War, most of the gnome production in Germany was wiped off. Later, it was during the 1960s that the plastic gnomes came into vogue in the country. Such gnomes, that are available even today, look cartoonish and campy. This explains why most people do not prefer having these gnomes.
The cheaper imitations of these products manufactured in Poland and the Czech Republic flooded the markets in the 1980s. However, an American company called Kimmel Gnomes started manufacturing garden gnomes of resin and clay. However, these accessories are not mass-produced, but are handmade. People who are enthusiastic about gardens look out for these gnomes, as they have an inherent appeal. Besides, one can choose from a wide range of poses and sizes.
Why purchase gnomes?
Well, if you wonder why you should be having gnomes in your garden, you should know a bit of folklore. Gnomes are believed to symbolize good luck. Initially, people believed that gnomes brought protection to buried minerals and treasure in the ground. Presently, people believe that these figures would look over their livestock and crops. Therefore, gardeners and farm owners tuck them into the barns and rafters. In other cases, they simply place gnomes in their gardens.
Of course, garden gnomes have a connection to the ancient world. In the past, farmers believed that these figures serve as a symbol of charm or good luck. With these gnomes around, their fields would produce more crops. Besides, they would keep pests, thieves, and other perils away.
How do gnomes look?
In mythical stories, no one described the gnomes. However, across the world, garden gnomes look the same, in general. Normally, they have a white, long beard. The clothes are simple, and they have a red hat. For female gnomes, the hair is longer. However, the dresses and the hat are the same. Some of these gnomes closely resemble witches.
Presently, you can find gnomes in different configurations and costumes. Many people do not like gnomes, and they get an adverse sensation. Besides, these mythical creatures are found in different poses on solar lighting, kegs of beer, taking baths, skiing gnomes and simply onlookers.
Well, if you wish to purchase one of these figures, it is recommended to go for the clay or resin ones. However, you can also purchase the cheaper plastic ones for your garden.
