by HeadGnome | Jan 23, 2022 | General, Gonks, History, Scandinavian Gnomes
The creature that looks so much like Santa was not originally a Christmas icon. Gonks are inspired by gnomes and hobgoblins found in Scandinavian mythology, who would make their home near farms where they could find food for future generations among livestock or other...
by HeadGnome | Jan 13, 2022 | Gonks, Scandinavian Gnomes
Yes. The first mention of a gonk dates back to 1600 in Norway, and possibly even earlier than that. A well-known motifs of Nordic folklore the gonks part protector/elf on shelf who watched over homes from evil while also being mischievous themselves but had...
by HeadGnome | Jan 13, 2022 | Gonks, History, Scandinavian Gnomes
The adorable little creatures are popping up all over! You’ll find them in bedding, tree decorations and more. They’re not just for Christmas; these gnomes have their roots steeped deep into Scandinavian mythology where they first appeared as neutral...
by HeadGnome | Jan 1, 2022 | Danish Gnomes, Gonks, Scandinavian Gnomes, Swedish Gnomes
Gonkert is such a stylish little guy. He’s got an amazing soft furry beard and hat under his silver wig, which matches perfectly with the white trim around it! He’s the most festive of all Santas! He has an impressive soft, felt-like grey body with arms that...
by HeadGnome | Jan 1, 2022 | Danish Gnomes, Gonks, History, Nisse, Scandinavian Gnomes
The Nisse is known as the Christmas gnome and these are Danish. This is a figure that originates from Scandinavian folklore with Finland, Norway and Sweden all having their own version of him such as the Tomten. Before Danish people had their own version of Santa...
by HeadGnome | Dec 31, 2021 | History, Scandinavian Gnomes
Tomtes are small men that live on homesteads and tend to be older than kids, whilst being size of a child. They have long lives where they enjoy helping out around their own property or taking care other people’s items when needed. Nisse comes from the name...