VINTAGE 1999 Potting Shed Nutcracker Soldier Signed Discontinued Figurine 13.5" For Sale

Item Description
The traditional Nutcracker Soldier has been part of Christmas celebrations for decades, bringing the familiar character of a uniformed guard into homes during the holiday season. This 1999 Potting Shed interpretation gives that tradition a distinctive American pottery character. Its deep cobalt blue and cream decoration, intricate crackle finish and glazed surface offer a different interpretation of the familiar wooden Christmas nutcracker, while preserving the military bearing that has defined the character for generations.Collectible Notes
The Potting Shed, based in Concord, Massachusetts officially opened for business in 1977. Although the company has since closed and its Christmas figurines are no longer produced, its distinctive pottery remains a testament to the craftsmanship that defined the studio. This signed Nutcracker Soldier, now discontinued, was handcrafted in 1999 with a detailed manufacturing process where every single figurine took approximately a week to complete. Each figurine from the studio began in a plaster mold before being individually shaped and finished by hand. A skilled artisan then painted each piece freehand, without the use of stencils, decals, or mechanical methods. After an initial bisque firing, each figurine was hand-dipped in glaze, fired again, and then meticulously hand-rubbed to accentuate the deep, intricate crackle pattern that gives the cream-colored body its vintage soul. The brilliant cobalt blue decoration is vibrant, rich, and perfectly complements the crisp, glossy finish. The base of this nutcracker features the authentic, hand-painted Potting Shed signature, including the artist initials CL, the studio's trademark five-pointed star, the production year 99, USA origin, and mold shape number H58.Condition and Measurements
This vintage Potting Shed Nutcracker Soldier is in excellent condition with vibrant shades of cobalt blue and cream with distinctive crackling in the cream areas. The figurine retains its high gloss shine and original blue felt pad on the base bottom, along with the authentic Potting Shed signature glazed in on the side of the base. There are no breaks, chips, cracks or repairs. The Nutcracker stands 13.5 inches tall, 6 inches wide and 4 inches deep. Weighs 2 lbs. 4.5 ounces. Carefully packaged and shipped with care from our smoke-free home. Multiple purchases ship together to reduce postage costs. Now available to buyers around the world through International Shipping.