Posted 9 years ago
TMac
(6 items)
I found this sweet little chocolate mold while I was researching Christmas traditions in Austria. I even lucked out with a second, larger Krampus mold that the seller found in his basement. Both had a little rust which came off easily enough although there remain some black marks. I haven't used it yet but I will soon!
There doesn't appear to be a maker's mark or stamp. If anyone can help out with the maker and approximate year that would be great!
Thanks!
Item: Chocolate Mold - Krampus
Material:
Size: 8 cm x 25 cm - 1,6 cm
Maker's Mark: none
Location Found: Vienna, Austria (September, 2015)
About Krampus:
Krampus is represented as a beast-like creature, generally demonic in appearance. The creature has roots in Germanic folklore; however, its influence has spread far beyond German borders.
According to folklore, Krampus punishes unruly children during the Yule season. This is in contrast with Saint Nicholas, who rewards well-behaved children with gifts. It's said that Krampus captures particularly naughty children in his sack and carries them away to his lair.
During the first week of December - and particularly on the evening of December 5th - you might see young men in Austria, southern Bavaria, South Tyrol, northern Friuli, Hungary, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic and Croatia dress up as Krampus and roam the streets frightening children with rusty chains and bells. December 5th is the eve of Saint Nicholas day on many church calendars.