Description

Here is a wonderfully crafted reproduction mid 19th century edition of the 12 Days of Christmas beautifully done in cutout shadow silhouette and completed in the shape of a Christmas Tree. Framed in a 10″ x 12″ nice period style dark painted wood with a period style gold inset inner frame. Cutout silhouette paper over parchment with color ornamentation and shadow cutout of tree behind it.

First made popular in the 17th-18th century, silhouette figure cutting has remained a popular craft ever since. The origins of the carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas” are firmly Christian. The twelve days of Christmas go back to the 6th century when they were established as the period between Christmas Day and the Day of Epiphany celebrations in the church. While the current musical tune associated with the carol is indeed a later early 20th century addition, the words were first known to be published in the late 18th century. Each day and gift has a specific meaning and in fact was a code to teach children and adults about the important parts of the Christian faith. A printed explanation is included. (ie., two turtle doves – the Old and New Testaments, five golden rings – the first five books of the Old Testament, seven swans a swimming – the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, ten lords a leaping – the Ten Commandments, &tc, &tc.)

The Christmas tree’s origins are contested by many with their varying agendas, however the American Christmas tree clearly has it’s origins in the Christian tradition. Brought to America by German immigrants with it’s roots in their Christian tradition in the old country, it began to gain popularity throughout the first half of the 19th century with Franklin Pierce being the first President to put one on display in the White House. Commercial sales of pre-cut trees began in the early 1850s.

Silhouette cutting began in Europe and was very popular with the upper class at first. Imported to the US it was first popular also with the rich and elite. As the craft expanded on the continent and some artists even immigrated, it spread to the common classes as well with booths set up at fairs and festivals. The mid 18th century was actually considered the golden age of the art as established in America.

Very, very limited quantity, sorry only one set per customer order.