Perchten are Austria’s terrifying, monstrous beings, with grotesque wooden masks, long horns, and shaggy fur. Their role is to chase away evil spirits and the harshness of winter. During Perchtenlauf (Perchten Parade), these figures storm through the alpine towns, ringing bells and making noise to ward off misfortune and ensure a prosperous year.
Perchten come out during the 12 Days of Christmas, especially Epiphany (Jan 5-6), not just Krampusnacht (Dec 5-6). Their tradition predates Christianity and is linked to pre-Germanic Alpine beliefs in seasonal cycles.
This Perchten that stands in the Kitzbühel Alps was made by master woodcarver @alpscarving Arthur Moinat. Arthur’s mother was a sculptor and they carved his first Krampus / Perchten masks together when he was only 5 or 6 years old. His passion and talent has been growing ever since.
