The small elf or gnome we call Tomtenisse in Sweden is a part of the rich Swedish folktale tradition that includes trolls, elves, giants, fairies, witches and the little tomte who often lived in the barn and was thought to be benevolent, looking after the farmer, his family and animals. As you can see, he bears little resemblance to the big and burly Santa of today.
I treasure this little plate, a gift from my cousin, Anders. Anders and I share an interest in Old Town, Gamla Stan, the oldest part of Stockholm. We love the jazz clubs in the ancient cellars, the magic of the narrow alleys and crooked medieval buildings. When I'm in Stockholm, Anders always treats me to a nice dinner in one of the many restaurants there. The plate is made by Arabia, Finland. Every Christmas I look at it and remember many good dinners and conversations with my cousin in Gamla Stan.
It seems like this little tomte has always been with me. Maybe he is keeping an eye on things around this place.
Hi Inger.. So cute... the little tomte!
ReplyDeleteI love your description of the jazz clubs in ancient cellars and the magic of the narrow alleys and crooked medieval buildings.. It makes me want to go there.. and savor that setting and enjoy the jazz.. Ahh..
Hehe beautiful - I'm sure the tomte IS keeping an eye on your place ... :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing Inger.
i love that beautiful plate. the horse is gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteThe Gnome plate with horse is adorable. Merry Christmas
ReplyDeleteYou description of Stockholm makes it sound like such a magical place. I have never thought about visiting Sweden but you have planted a seed now.
ReplyDeleteEverything about these spells magical Christmas. Beautiful.
ReplyDeleteCute Christmas keepsakes!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE these posts about Sweden!
ReplyDeleteYour plate is lovely, Inger. Its nice to have special mementos around the house that you adore.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Pam
Some day I hope to get to Sweden. Many years ago my sister, my mother and her sister went back and met relatives. They thoroughly enjoyed themselves. I can't recall why I couldn't go, but it would have been nice to see where my mom's family came from.
ReplyDeleteInger.... I love little gnomes. There is something magical about them. They have a special place at Christmas and I like them in gardens, too.
ReplyDeleteHave a magical holiday, Inger.... Love to you and husband and the kids.
I've always been fond of elves/gnomes and Santa as well!...:)JP
ReplyDeleteI believe he is keeping an eye on you.
ReplyDeleteThat plate is charming.
ReplyDeleteWe all should have a tomte to look after us! Interesting folklore, Inger. We are familiar with Arabia dishes....our first 'set' was Arabia. Only the teapot remains which is used quite a bit.
ReplyDelete