German woodworker’s middle-finger nutcracker mocks foreign knockoffs

One artisan’s defiant wooden figure is more than a joke—it’s a fight for tradition. Only 15 were made, and they vanished in a flash.

, and ASMedia

2025 November 29 . 3:15 PM

1 min read

This is a collage image. In this we can see fun rides, children's, table, cup, food item, spoon and... — This is a collage image. In this we can see fun rides, children's, table, cup, food item, spoon and some objects, lights, wall, bushes, trees, grass, rope, hat are there.

Middle Finger Nutcracker Fights Against Cheap Copies - German woodworker’s middle-finger nutcracker mocks foreign knockoffs

A master woodworker from Seiffen has crafted a cheeky nutcracker flipping off foreign imitations. Markus Füchtner designed the figure to protest foreign knockoffs sold as authentic Ore Mountain folk crafts. His creation has sparked both amusement and debate over cultural heritage.

Füchtner’s nutcracker stands out with its rebellious gesture. The wooden figure sports rabbit fur for hair and beard, wears shorts, and dons a baseball cap. Only 15 were made, and they sold out fast. He may produce more, but none will arrive before Christmas.

The middle-finger nutcracker highlights ongoing struggles over authenticity. Certified workshops continue to protect their heritage against foreign imitations. For now, Füchtner’s sold-out figure remains a bold statement in the fight for tradition.