Laurel Top Hat Swordsman Christmas Wooden Nutcracker 12 in by Wizardi F07M14-39-N01365B

Bring a classic toy soldier to the season with the Laurel Top Hat Swordsman, a wooden Christmas nutcracker by Wizardi — a proud soldier in a tall black top hat painted with a gold laurel, a bright red coat with a row of gold buttons and gold cords at the shoulder, and a fluffy white beard. He holds a silver sword upright, with navy trousers and black boots laced in gold on a red base.

A little collector's folklore: in The Nutcracker, the nutcracker himself leads the toy soldiers with his sword against the Mouse King, and collectors say every swordsman on the shelf is ready to do the same. The laurel on his hat is for the battle he already won.

Why this nutcracker: if you picture a nutcracker as the red-coated toy soldier with a sword, this is him — clean, classic and unmistakably Christmas. He looks right at home on any traditional mantel, and his size and price make him easy to add to a growing collection.

In the box: one Laurel Top Hat Swordsman nutcracker in painted wood with a 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.

Line him up with the jewelled king (F07M14-39-N01365A), the bearskin drummer (F07M14-39-N01365C) and the piper (F07M14-39-N01365D) for a full guard, or stand him under the tree with red 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 nutcracker collectors and toy soldier fans.