The Steinbach Signed Limited Edition Three Kings Melchior German Nutcracker brings the timeless Christmas story to life. Part of the Three Wisemen series Melchior comes bearing his gift of myrrh. Wearing his satin kingly headpiece and stately robes he truly is a king from the East. A treasured Christmas figure he stands at a kingly 17.5 inches tall. This piece is made of genuine high-quality wood has been hand-carved in Germany and is completely painted in freehand. Hand-signed by Karla Steinbach this is a premier piece for your nativity scene or just a wonderful collectible holiday display piece.About SteinbachSteinbach is recognized for the unique design of its wood-carved creations developed many years ago by Herr Christian Steinbach. The Steinbach family started making nutcrackers and other items in the 1800s in the Alpine regions of Germany. The tradition of creating hand-carved Steinbach German Nutcrackers is carried on by the Steinbach family which remains responsible for the product concept development design manufacture and quality control at the Hohenhameln factory in the northern region of Germany.Steinbach items are highly collectible. If you are starting a new collection or adding to your existing collection you will love these unique masterpieces. These treasured collectibles are handed down from generation to generation.The Making of Steinbach NutcrackersEach Steinbach nutcracker is produced using up to 130 separate procedures. Genuine hardwood is cut and shaped into specific sizes and parts. The wood is then turned by hand using an ancient process that creates smooth clean surfaces. The pieces are lathed polished and drilled before they are turned over to experienced craftsmen who prime and spray them repeatedly alternating the process with drying to produce an even tone. Carving comes next; wood-carving artisans use knives and finely honed skill to add personality and detail to the pieces. Finally the painters take over; trained German artists paint