Bearskin Hat Drummer Christmas Wooden Nutcracker 12 in by Wizardi F07M14-39-N01365C

Beat the drum for Christmas with the Bearskin Hat Drummer, a wooden nutcracker by Wizardi — a royal guard drummer in a tall, fluffy black bearskin hat, a green-and-red uniform crossed with a white sash and gold epaulettes, and a white beard under a neat moustache. He raises his drumsticks over a green-and-red drum, with red trousers and black boots laced in gold on a red base.

A little collector's folklore: the tall bearskin hats of the royal guards were said to make the soldiers look like giants to frighten their enemies, and collectors say this drummer does the same job against the Mouse King. One beat of his drum and the mice stay hidden until spring.

Why this nutcracker: if you love the look of the royal guard, the fluffy bearskin hat gives him real texture and presence next to painted-hat nutcrackers. The green, red and gold uniform is classic Christmas, and at about 12 inches he suits a mantel line-up, bookshelf or entry table.

In the box: one Bearskin Hat Drummer nutcracker in painted wood with a faux-fur hat and white faux-fur beard, packed in a red gift box with a window. A decorative nutcracker, not intended for cracking nuts. Ready to display, no assembly needed.

March him out with the rest of his regiment — the jewelled king (F07M14-39-N01365A), the swordsman (F07M14-39-N01365B) and the piper (F07M14-39-N01365D) — or stand him beside the tree with red and gold ornaments. Dust with a soft, dry brush and keep away from moisture and heat. A decoration, not a toy.

Size: 30 cm tall (11.8 in). Classic Christmas mantel and shelf decor, and a festive gift for drummers, musicians and nutcracker collectors.