The Steinbach Rauchermen (smoking figures) are not nutcrackers but are wooden incense burners. These hand-carved figures burn incense that gives off wonderful aromas and fragrances, and create a festive atmosphere to bless the home and ward off evil spirits. The creation of the Rauchermen came about after the 30-year religious war (1618-1648) that was fought in Germany. At the end of the war, medieval piety and folk art combined to bring about new forms of burning incense. Over the years, there have been many different types of Rauchermen designed: respectable and professional people, folk characters, heroes and forest workers. We are excited to introduce a number of new Rauchermen for 2010.

Instructions: Pull out legs, place incense cone in metal holder leaving a little room between the metal and cone and press clamps together. Light incense cone and put top part on legs again. Watch them puff!