Antique Early 19th C. PA Dutch Springerle Cookie Mold Board - Rare Mermaid, Sun Face, Owl Motifs - Hand Planed Hardwood Americana

This old handcarved cookie or sugar mold has 33 carved cavities. It has beautiful animals along with other delightful images. There are birds, fish, a mermaid, owl, sun, bears, hearts and more. It is in fairly good condition for its age. There are wormholes and wear to the hand planed board. It would look perfect on a country kitchen wall. The board is approximately 1.25” thick, 19.5” long, and 5” wide.

Iconic & Rare Motifs Included:

Every single image on this board carries deep 19th-century symbolic meaning, making it an excellent study piece of early American folk art:

• The Mermaid (Meerjungfrau): A highly coveted and exceptionally rare motif on standard multi-print boards. • "Man in the Sun" Face: A classic anthropomorphic sunburst face representing divine providence and the changing of seasons. • The Seated Dog & Hearth Cats: Includes a wonderful loyal dog wearing a carved collar, alongside two distinct domestic cats (one fluffy and forward-facing, one sitting upright) symbolizing fidelity and protection for the home. • The Running Hare (Rabbit): A classic spring/Easter motif representing rebirth. • The Musical Harp & Waffle Iron: Celebrating traditional holiday music, good cheer, and the art of baking itself. • The Beehive & Patterned Pitcher: Traditional pioneer symbols representing industry, thrift, and a well-provided, hospitable household. • The Distelfink & Patriotic Eagle Head: Iconic regional bird figures representing good luck, happiness, and early American pride. • The Owl: Highly detailed carving with concentric eyes, representing watchfulness during the winter season. • The Swan & Textured Heart: Traditional symbols of marital fidelity, purity, and love. • The Cask/Barrel, Feather Plume, & Scaled Fish: Representing hospitality, peace, and abundance.