Kurt S Adler Appraisal

Kurt S. Adler Hollywood Nutcrackers Collection - 15-Inch Pastel Nutcracker

This is a decorative 15-inch nutcracker, part of the 'Hollywood Nutcrackers' collection designed by Holly Adler for Kurt S. Adler, Inc. The piece is housed in its original red and green retail packaging, which serves as a major indicator of its provenance and collectible status. The nutcracker itself is constructed of wood and hand-painted in a whimsical, non-traditional palette of pastel blues, soft pinks, and metallics. It features a lush, grey faux-fur beard and hair, with blue painted eyes and rosy cheeks. The figure is intricately detailed with braided gold and mint-green trim, small faux-jewel embellishments, and glitter accents. The nutcracker stands on a circular gold-toned wooden base and holds a staff. The 'Hollywood Nutcrackers' series is known for its creative and stylized take on the classic nutcracker, often incorporating fantasy elements. The condition appears to be 'New in Box,' which is highly desirable for collectors, though there is minor visible shelf wear on the cardboard corners of the packaging. The manufacturing mark 'Santa's World - Kurt S. Alder since 1946' is prominently displayed on the box, dating this as a contemporary holiday collectible from the late 20th or early 21st century.