Michael Garland: Christmas/Family in Front of Fireplace

Artist: Michael Garland
1952 -
Nationality: American
Artwork Year: 1996
Image Size: 12 by 14 inches
Overall Size: 15 by 16.75 inches
Medium: Oil on Cold Press Illustration Board

Anglo-Saxons used the word "yule" to refer to the time of the winter solstice. December was known as "the former yule," while January was "the after yule." In Nordic regions fire was vital for winter survival, not only to provide warmth, but for cooking and lighting the home during the long dark days of winter. In Scandinavian countries, pagan yule festivals were held near the end of each year during the winter solstice. Vikings honored Thor, the god of war, by burning a yule log during the season. After Christianity spread to Europe, these festivals changed from pagan superstitions to celebrations commemorating Christmas. In fact, the word "yule" has come to symbolize the Christmas season. The flame of the yule log represents the light that came from heaven at Christ's birth. Families enjoyed festive ceremonies as the yule log was brought into the house and placed in the fireplace. If possible, the yule log was lit with a fragment of the previous year's log, symbolizing the flame of God's eternal light. Yule log customs continued long after the Middle Ages and have continued to the present day in many parts of Europe, especially England. The custom spread to the United States where, during colonial times, Christmas festivities lasted only as long as the yule log was kept glowing. Thus, colonists favored large logs to make the celebration last as long as possible. The yule log continues to warm the hearts and homes of those who celebrate this joyous holiday season.

This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood® First Day Cover for the U.S. 32¢ Christmas Fireplace stamp issued October 8, 1996.

Artwork Copyright © 1996 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.

Our Stock Number (SKU): XB15545

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