Hand Carved Russian Santa On Moose
7" x 8"
Like the western gift-bearer, the Slavic Santa went through many transformations. The origin of Ded Moroz, sometimes known as “Grandfather Frost” or “Father Frost”, can be traced to Slavic mythology which predates Christianity. According to these myths, Frost or Morozko was known as a snow demon for some, and “a powerful hero and smith who chains water with his “iron” frosts,” to others. Morozko could be quite cruel as popular folklore suggests he would kidnap children, and only return them when their parents provided him with gifts.
Under the influence of the Orthodox Church and Russian authors, Ded Moroz morphed into a kinder magical figure who instead of kidnapping children, provides them with presents on New Year’s Eve.