Vintage 1992 House of Hatten Santas Helper Gnome Elf Christmas Ornament Denise Calla

This is a wonderful Denise Calla House of Hatten vintage 1992 Santa's Helper Elf ornament from the Enchanted Forest collection.  The ornament is signed "House of Hatten c. 1992."   The House of Hatten specialized in whimsical folk art Christmas decorations that were beautifully hand painted in a wonderfully muted palette.  This  gnome measures approximately 10.5 inches tall by 3 inches wide by 2.5 inches deep.  Designed by Denise Calla for her Enchanted Forest Collection, this gnome is wearing a dusty rose coat, turquoise mittens, and black and white striped pants, wearing a belt with stars. 

 House of Hatten first approached Denise Calla in 1986 to create a line of collectible Santas and Christmas ornaments.  Until July, 2003 she was their primary designer.  Her works are not only used to decorate personal homes but also hung on the first lady's tree in the White House.  Denise retired from designing for House of Hatten in 2004.

"The enchanted Forest is a wondrous, magical place where, hidden by emerald branches, St. Nicholas and his helpers prepare for the Christmas Season.  Tiny elves scatter flocks of doves spreading a message of peace to all, while others gather twinkling stars from the winter sky to place atop the trees.  Worker elves merrily place geese in Christmas baskets to be left at every home as a symbol of prosperity.  Nearby, playful deer frolic in the woods reminding everyone of the gentleness of the season.  The Forest abounds with feelings of Love, Life, and Good Cheer.  As Christmas Eve draws near, all prepare for St, Nicholas' Journey.  Messengers ride on the backs of flying geese heralding Christmas greetings as other elves travel the night sky carrying magical lanterns to light the way, and, when their work is done, a quiet falls over the Enchanted Forest as St. Nicholas makes his way into the dreams of all who believe in the wonder of Christmas."