The Schwibbogen LED Original Erzgebirge Christmas by Weigla combines traditional craftsmanship and modern design. For many people, Schwibbogen are part of the Christmas season, because their cozy light invites you to linger and creates a homely atmosphere.
This Schwibbogen is characterized by an asymmetrical, dark brown frame that rises curved above the scenery. The indirect LED lighting is hidden inside the arch and illuminates the motif gently and evenly. The light intensifies the warm colors and highlights details without dazzling.
The scene shown shows a snow-covered village in the Erzgebirge. In the background you can see the Seiffen church, surrounded by typical Erzgebirge houses with dark brown roofs that are modeled on the real architecture. The arrangement of the buildings conveys a feeling of calm and security and transports the viewer into a Christmassy winter landscape.
In the foreground are symbolic figures of Erzgebirge art: an imposing nutcracker, a classic smoker with a long pipe and candle as well as a small rider. These figures are not only decorative, but also deeply rooted in the Erzgebirge Christmas tradition. In addition, snowflakes gently trickle down from the sky, which gives the whole scene a fairytale, wintry touch.
The back of the LED candle arch shows another lovingly designed motif that underlines the diversity of the Erzgebirge Christmas tradition. In addition to the well-known smoker, you can see a carol choir here. These choirs, often depicted in the form of small figures, symbolize the children’s choirs that used to go from house to house during Advent and sing Christmas carols. The carol figures usually wear dark robes and lanterns, which is authentically reproduced in this scene.
In addition, the traditional light figures “miner and angel” complement the image on the back of the candle arch. These two figures are firmly anchored in the culture of the Ore Mountains and represent the region’s close connection with mining as well as the belief in protection and light. The miner is a symbol of the hard work and dangers of mining, while the angel provides protection and comfort.
The back of the Original Ore Mountains Christmas candle arch offers a second perspective on the Ore Mountains at Christmas and invites you to look at and enjoy both sides. The double-sided design of this candle arch shows not only the sophistication of the craftsmanship, but also the rich symbolism that is deeply rooted in the culture of the Ore Mountains. Every figure and every detail on both sides captures the spirit of the Ore Mountains tradition and makes this candle arch a unique piece of jewelry for the Christmas season.
- Width approx. 66cm
- Height approx. 34cm
- Depth approx. 6cm
- LED lighting
You can find more beautiful candle arches and their accessories here.
Tradition of the Ore Mountains Schwibbogen
The history of the Ore Mountains Schwibbogen goes back to the 18th century and is closely linked to the mining culture of the Ore Mountains. Originally, the Schwibbogen had no direct connection to the Christmas season, but symbolized light and hope in the dark winter time. The first Schwibbogen was probably built around 1740 in Johanngeorgenstadt, a city that was dominated by mining at the time.
The term “Schwibbogen” comes from architecture. It refers to an arch that is placed between two walls to support them. The Schwibbogen in the form of a wooden candlestick soon became a symbol of the region, where the long winters and hard work underground created a special need for light and community. The first Schwibbogen were made of metal and were often made by the miners themselves. At first they showed motifs from the mining world, such as miners, miners’ lamps and tools that reflected people’s daily lives.
It was not until the 20th century that Schwibbogen began to be used as Christmas decorations. Over time, the motifs changed and Christian symbols such as angels, Mary and Joseph were added. Landscapes and typical scenes from life in the Ore Mountains also found their way into the design.
Today, candle arches are an integral part of the Ore Mountains’ Christmas tradition. Modern candle arches are often illuminated with LED lights and show detailed carvings of villages, churches and traditional figures such as nutcrackers and smokers. They are popular worldwide and for many people are the epitome of Christmas coziness and traditional craftsmanship from the Ore Mountains.