The North Pole Series was inspired by the enduring legend of Santa Claus.   At the North Pole, Santa and his elves busily work and sing, preparing all sorts of toys for children everywhere.   This hand-painted porcelain series began in 1990 and the collection includes brightly colored buildings, candy cane lampposts and benches, and fun-loving elves living in an enchanting frozen kingdom where snow never melts and Christmas never ends.   While the elves make and test toys, run deliveries, and prepare Santa's sleigh, the reindeer practice their flying skills.   The town offers much to do, like sample gingerbread, observe the night skies, or shop for greenery.   The scenes created here become enduring symbols of Christmas spirit and childhood dreams, spreading joy to all.