Description: A hand carved wood and polychrome painted American Folk Art figure. The carving shows Santa Clause or Father Christmas standing with a green toy bag on his back. The figure which was carved and painted by Earl Houck shows Sant6a wearing a red suit, a red hat, and black boots. He has a white beard and blue eyes. A great looking carving that is very well done. Santa has a white beard and red cheeks. There is a head  of a teddy bear sticking out from the bag on his back as are several other ends of toys. The figure has a white boarders along the edges of the suite and has a wide black belt. The piece is signed by the artist on the bottom with block letters. The carving shows quite a bit of details. The entire piece appears to be carved from a single piece of wood. Just a wonderful and nicely done piece of American Folk Art to add to your Americana Collection. Please carefully review the photos presented as they are part and parcel of our description.

Date: Unknown but the piece is contemporary.

Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Lancaster County Pennsylvania where Mr. Houck lived.

Size: Measures ~8 1/4" high, ~3 1/2" at its widest, and the base measuring ~1 1/2" by ~1 3/4". The piece weighs about seven ounces. 

Maker: Earl Ray Houck of Gordonville, PA. 

Marks: Marked EARL HOUCK in blue block letters on the bottom of the piece. 

Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: Truly a nice and colorful piece of Americana, which would make a worthy addition to your collection. Note that Mr. Houck died in December 2010 and as such his carvings has become very desirable and sought-after. 

Condition: The carving is in very good condition, with no breaks, cracks, losses, or repairs. It does have minor scratches, a minimal loss to the paint and a few minor nicks. Please see photos for additional condition information.