Michael Garland (American, B. 1952) "Santa Working on Toy" Signed lower right. Original Acrylic painting on Illustration Board.

Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.

This painting original painting which was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 32c Santa Claus Working on Sled stamp issued September 30, 1995.

Most of our modern American Christmas practices stem from those brought here by immigrants from various countries in the 19th century. An important part of an English Victorian Christmas included a large feast on Christmas day. Beginning in the afternoon, the extended family would sit down for a lunch that typically consisted of soups, stuffed turkey, plum pudding and mincemeat pie. Afterward the family retired to the sitting room for games and conversation. Later, an elaborate tea was served. The principle meal of the day began in the late evening. At this meal the hostesses served trout, a suckling pig roasted whole on the spit, candy and cake, and several varieties of wine. During the 1800s, the use of lights became an important aspect of Christmas. Part of the allure of lights arose from the traditional biblical account of the Christmas story, which told of the wise men being led to Jesus by a bright shining star. Celebrations with lights varied from country to country. In Spain, children carried lamps on poles and lined city streets to guide the three kings. In Germany, houses were dark while children were led into a room where candles lit up the Christmas tree. In Sweden, young women would risk burning their hair while wearing bonnets of candles on their head. Wearing white dresses, they would bring music and coffee to their parents in the wee hours on St. Lucia's day. The image of Santa Claus on this First Day Cover portrays a more universal Christmas tradition in many areas of the world.

Image Size: 14.25 x 12.25 in.
Overall Size: 20 x 14.75 in.
Unframed.
(B15010)

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