More than 800 years ago the village of Schwaebisch Gmuend was founded by the Kings of Staufen who were responsible for settling this region known for its artisans specializing in the production of gold silver and brass jewelry as well as decorative ornaments. These works of art were shipped to markets in Italy and Western Europe. The tradition in metal arts survives today in this medieval walled town located near Stuttgart Germany. For generations families have engaged in ornament cutting designing their own unique decorations to give friends and relatives as gifts during the holiday season. The Biedermanns originated the creation of a single Christmas ornament commemorating each year drawing on the talent from this region. In the fall of 1970 we contacted several artisan families who among them designed and cut the first ornament which depicted the town square of Schwaebisch Gmuend. Since that first edition each year a group of artists has selected a single design from those submitted by the townspeople and the ornament to be cut for the coming season is chosen. This is now a tradition that the people of Schwaebisch Gmuend and America cherish. Designs through the years have been selected from those created by school children and adults. Our Master Cutter Georg Neumaier directs the production of the Biedermann Commemorative Ornament and is also involved in selecting the years winning design. The now very valuable original brass ornament was supplemented in 1984 by our first edition silver-plated ornament. Beginning in 1987 alternate years depict the story of The Twelve Days of Christmas. Nineteen ninety-eight began the first edition of the Christmas Quotations Series of ornaments. We take pride in offering the Biedermann Commemorative Ornaments to you the collector and to all connoisseurs of tasteful high quality craftsmanship. Mediterranean Blue Mosaic Shade Dimensions: 6 x 4.5 inches
