The custom of the Christmas tree developed in modern Germany (with predecessors that can be traced to the 16th century), from where it spread to Europe in the 19th century, and after WWI in many other countries worldwide. It's frequently traced to the symbolism of evergreen trees in pre-Christian winter rites. The tree was traditionally decorated with edibles such as apples (symbolizing the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil), nuts, and later candies, and in the 18th century it began to be illuminated by candles, now replaced by Christmas lights. In the modern era apples and nuts were replaced by baubles, small hollow glass or plastic spheres coated with a thin metallic layer to make them reflective.
About the stamp
The stamp is one of the four non-traditional stamps feature familiar Christmas symbols, designed by Lisa Christensen and issued on October 30,2013:
• a Christmas tree (55c) - it's on the postcard
• a gift (55c)
• a candle (60c)
• a little bell (1.70 AUD)
This is a post for Sunday Stamps #150, run by Viridian from Viridian’s Postcard Blog. The theme of this week is Holiday Stamps. Click on the button to visit Viridian’s blog and all the other participants.
sender: Heather Massese
sent from Perth (Western Australia), on 07.11.2013
photo: Louis Petruccelli
It was great to read the history of the Christmas Tree. I also like the graphic tree on the stamp.
ReplyDeleteYes, this series is wonderful. Very special.
DeleteAnother lovely stamp or two! thank you for participating this week, and hope to see you next week.
ReplyDeleteAustralia Post produce some nice postcards and perfect to have the decorativeChristmas tree added, the fish on the cancel is intriguing.
ReplyDeleteI don't now nothing about the fish which is on the postmark
DeleteI really like the graphic Christmas tree stamp.
ReplyDelete