1908 Christmas Songbirds

Winter scene Christmas postcards were treasured by their recipients during the Victorian period. En Plein air nature painting was considered an important genteel pastime for the leisure classes. A rise in "Sunday painters" followed. Variations of framed Winter Pastorals postcards were treasured and collected as the appreciation for the art form grew.

Here we have a snow-covered landscape with a fence-lined curvy road that takes you to a farmhouse and barn. The warm glow of an early sunrise lights the sky - symbolizing the arrival of the Son of God, carrying with it the promise of Spring.

During the Victorian era, plants and flowers were used to send unspoken messages. This antique Christmas card is no exception. The overt message is in writing "A Merry Christmas".

But what of the unspoken message? Our pastoral Winter scene is framed with embossed sprigs of holly. Holly is a symbol of fertility and eternal life, thought to have magical powers. To Christians, the sharp leaves symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Christ, while the berries represent his blood and the gift of salvation.

We also see a message of romantic intent in the two songbirds. One rests on a branch of mistletoe as the other flies in for a visit. In Victorian times, a young lady standing under the mistletoe could not refuse to be kissed. The kiss did not have to have romantic connotations for it could also signify lasting friendship and goodwill. However, if a girl who stands under the mistletoe is not kissed, it was said she would not marry the following year.

The soft, silver gilding sets off the light, snowy Winter aesthetic of this card. An unusual alternative to the golden gilded cards of the period.

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