Hekas Weather House green

Hekas Weather House green

Hekas Weather House green: A weather house is an artistic replica of a miniature German or Alpine chalet that indicates the weather. Typical weather houses have two doors side by side – the left side has a female, the right side a male. The female figure comes out of the house when the weather is sunny and dry, while the male (often carrying an umbrella) comes out to indicate rain. What a fun way to predict the weather!

Although these are detailed in a charming way, the house functions as a hygrometer. The male and female figures ride on a balance bar, which is suspended using the same materials that are used in musical instruments. The string relaxes or shrinks based on the humidity in the surrounding air; relaxing when the air is wet and tensing when the air is dry. This action swings one figure or the other out of the house depending on the humidity.

Where did they originate?

Weather houses have been a tradition in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland for centuries. Although the exact date they first emerged remains unknown, it was likely during the late 1700s to early 1800s. Once known for being a classic handmade souvenir made across Bavaria, they have become part of Germany’s art and culture and continue to be a charming addition to countless homes across Germany and beyond.

Where are authentic weather houses made?

The finest authentic weather houses are made today near the Black Forest region, where many are still handmade with the same traditional techniques used for centuries. They are often hand painted and hand carved from high-quality wood, which gives them their authentic folk-art style. It is this combination of the Black Forest woodworking skills and traditional painting styles that create the instantly recognisable wall-hanging chalets.

We carry many kinds of weather houses handmade in Germany.