Pyramids

As to their appearance, Erzgebirge pyramids are similar to other variants, such as the Lusatian pointed candlestick, the Thuringian wheel-type wooden tree, or the Bavarian Christmas tree composed of wooden elements. However, the Erzgebirge rotating pyramid is different from those in as much as its components can move. Caused by the heat of the candles, the turned or carved groups of figurines which are found on the well-known Seiffen tier-type pyramid rotate. Originally, the toy-makers followed the pattern of the horse-driven winch used in mining.

Pyramids in the Seiffen region can be traced back to 1850. Many pyramids ranging from three to seven-tier designs are among the most precious exhibits of the Seiffen Toy Museum.

However, none of the very first exemplars has been maintained until now. The exhibits shown were all made later, some of them in the last century. Pyramids used to be looked upon as a festive piece of décor in the toy-makers' homes. Only later, in the first decade of the 20th century, their designers started to make them for sale, too. In the forties, they saw a great upswing, which was the result of two achievements: candle holders could be completed by the user, and the winged wheel on top could be taken off. This made it possible to pack the pyramid in cardboard boxes and send it to any place. In our days, there also are hanging and wall-supported pyramids. The traditional colours are green, white and red. Müller and other manufacturers introduced multi-tier pyramids of natural wood. What makes them so attractive is the fascinating combination of woods from the region of Seiffen with exotic woods. The wooden ring on the top is made into a crown, which has become a characteristic feature offered by Müller. In the wide range of Müller Pyramids you will also find those, which are electrically illuminated and driven. They may rise up to 1.50 metres high. Some of these novel articles come with stylish tier-fences, registered design elements which are inspired by the baroque fences in the Dresden Zwinger.