My favourite rolling pin

This has been part of my collection for over 25 years. 19th century German springerle rolling pin. Historians have documented the molding of “picture cookies” to the Middle Ages with evidence of “sweet cake cookies” established in the Bronze Age dating back to 2,500 B.C. In Ancient Rome clay molds were used to make “honey cakes”. Springerle cookies came into favor in the 15th century in southwest Germany, with the earliest mold from the 14th century found in Switzerland The name “springerle” comes from the old German dialect meaning “little knight” or “jumping horse”. These anise flavored biscuits with an embossed picture or design were made with specially carved flat boards or rolling pins. Early springerle cookies depicted Biblical scenes or symbols. Over time the cookies reflected holidays, special events such as a wedding, and images of every day life. It was the 18th and 19th centuries that brought the springerle cookie to its height of popularity.

This hand carved springerle rolling pin is comprised of four rows with three individual cookies totaling twelve cookies. Each row of carved impressions reflect the woodworker’s personal appreciation for things found in nature and their value of faith. Springerle “biscuits” created with this pin would produce beautiful deer, roosters and horses. The carved motifs are both deep and richly detailed.. The Pennsylvania Dutch have been making their own wooden pins in the late 1800s known as “draalhus” This rolling pin is in quality antique condition and remarkable workmanship. It represents a historical baking utensil treasured by me, and later as an heirloom to be passed down through generations. It's design and usefulness has not altered significantly in hundreds of years.