Thor Tomte

Thor is the mighty god who rides the sky creating both thunder and lightning. Here, in the shape of a traditional Swedish tomte, he comes with his fiery beard, and a body and hat made of soft felt.

The tomte figure represents the many different spirits that were very important to Viking Age Scandinavians. In folklore the tomte guarded the home and protected its people from misfortunes. 

Midwinter celebrations in Viking Age Scandinavia were (and still are) known as Jul. A common practice, already appearing in Hrafnsmál in the year 900, is "drinking Jul". That points at the importance of gathering around the ceremonial toasts during the festivities.