Diessen, a small town located on the shores of beautiful Lake Ammersee in the heart of Bavaria's romantic countryside, as a rich historical and artistic heritage which dates back to the 9th century. During medieval times two important trade routes joined ways here, thus spurring the economic and cultural development of the region. Diessen also was the waystation for pilgrims who visited the many shrines and monasteries located in that area. At this time pewter amulets, ornaments, religious pictures and jewelry sold in churches and convents around Diessen became very popular. Their professional ambition and artistic talent made the craftsmen of Diessen famous and their products were soon sold all over Europe as collectable Pewter art. The tradition has been kept alive by the family of Wilhelm Schweizer since 1796 and even today they base their designs on originals which often are hundreds of years old. Each piece is truly a handmade item, as every one is cast individually from molds carefully engraved in slabs of slate. Each mold's life is limited to about one thousand castings after which a new mold has to be carved to ensure the quality and richness of even the tiniest detail. The accuracy and intricacy of the finished pieces are testimony of the pewter caster's art and skill. ***Pewter art is truly individual works of art, therefore colors of individual pieces cannot be guaranteed as in each case the artist determines the paint color at time of painting*** Angels Flowers Folklore Hearts Houses Ornaments Rabbits Santas Special Occasions Trees Through the Year