This great small series consists of three different elves all paired with a different animal - giraffe, deer, and donkey.  These amazingly detailed sets were imports from Japan made by Shafford - circa 1950s.  Each set stands about 4'' in height.

This series was originally documented by Irene Thornburg in her book entitled The Big Book of Salt & Pepper Shaker Series.  It can be found on page 133.

Shafford elf with giraffe salt and pepper shakers
Shafford elf with donkey salt and pepper shakers
Shafford elf with deer salt and pepper shakers