Michael Garland: Looking at Christmas Tree Ornaments

Artist: Michael Garland
1952 -
Nationality: American
Artwork Year: 1995
Image Size: 12 by 15.5 inches
Overall Size: 15 by 20 inches
Medium: Acrylic on Cold Press Illustration Board

The Victorian Age (1837-1901), coincided with the reign of Queen Victoria over the British Empire. In England, preparations for the holiday during that era meant elaborate decorations. These normally included the display of an evergreen tree and other greens -- either balsam or Douglas fir. The evergreen was a symbol of eternal life, for it remained green even during the bleakest months of the year. Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert of Germany, is credited with introducing the Christmas tree tradition to England. Originating in Germany for a holiday honoring Adam and Eve on December 24, the "paradise" tree represented the Garden of Eden, and was trimmed with wafers that symbolized the host -- the Christian sign of redemption. As time passed, the wafers were replaced with cookies cut in various shapes and sizes. Candles were also added, symbolizing the light of God. In the Victorian Era the Christmas tree was typically about eight feet tall and shaped in six tiers. Each tier was decorated with candles, wax crafts, candies and cakes which were hung from the branches with ribbons and paper chains. Another popular tradition -- hanging mistletoe from a ceiling or door frame -- originated in 16th-century England. When caught standing underneath the festive plant, one would receive a kiss. Many modern Christmas practices that have spread across the globe are modeled after these enduring Victorian traditions.

This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood® First Day Cover for the U.S. 32¢ Child Holding Jumping Jack stamp issued September 30, 1995.

Artwork Copyright © 1995 Unicover Corporation. All Rights Reserved under United States and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, or otherwise exploit the Artwork in any way. Images of the Artwork may be watermarked and/or digitally watermarked. Any sale of the physical original does not include or convey the Copyright or any right comprised in the copyright.

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