In 1932, Mr. Richard Glaesser decided to become an independent distributor in Seiffen. His early assortment consisted of semi-luxury items such as coffee, tea, cocoa, tobacco and alcohol and then in 1934, wooden figures made in Seiffen were added. At the end of the 1940's, the company added items from its own production and quickly found its own identity. In the first years after World War II, items such as chests, quill boxes, and buttons were very popular. Thereafter traditional Christmas decorations from Seiffen gained in importance.

Mr. Glaesser paid particular attention that his figures have a friendly appearance, be of the highest quality but remain affordable. Naturally, everything was based on typical Seiffen wood-turned figures. Figures from the Christmas story, fairy tales, as well as miners and angels from our mining traditions were used on Christmas pyramids and candle holders.

The Glaesser company developed into the most significant of pyramid producers. The blue pyramids with gates of heaven, the advent houses, or the six- or eight sided terraced pyramids are world famous. The Glaesser company expanded its line of Seiffen Christmas decorations by adding music boxes. The natural wood music box with the nativity scenes with the two palm-trees is among the oldest and most appealing. The music box is outfitted with a large Swiss musical movement that allows the figure-laden platform to turn to the melody of "Silent Night".

Endearing and expressive turned-wood figures have made the Erzgebirge workshop Richard Glaesser GmbH world famous. Experienced artisans produce Mary, Joseph and the Christ-child, sometimes painted and sometimes left in natural wood. In most cases these delicate figures are placed on a valuable pyramid. Collectors appreciate the figures as a Glaesser signature.

You will find a wide variety of products available from Richard Glaesser GmbH. Smoking figures, music boxes, nutcrackers, arched candle holders and much more is available to you in discriminating design and excellent quality.

Experience with wood working, influenced by the customs of miners and centuries-old knowledge about toy production are expressed in the work of the artisans. Continuing traditional techniques and protecting existing designs, coupled with passion and creativity, bring unique products and Erzgebirge holiday customs to your home.

The company logo with the musical angel and the RG initials is meant to help you with your purchase and insure that your purchase is an original piece from the Erzgebirge.