Christmas cards have been this tradition that people look forward to during the holiday season to spread the joy around and even meet up with some old friends. But let me tell you that the history of these festive greetings and their usage goes centuries back. This article aims at recognizing the principal steps of creating a history of Christmas cards starting from their origin and up to the present day.
This is the story of the creation of Christmas Cards
It is very important to note that the tradition of sending Christmas greetings can be dated back to the early nineteenth century. It was at the end of the year 1843 when the very first Christmas card was created by a British artist named John Calcott Horsley. Customized by a civil servant named Henry Cole, this first card also featured a jovial scene of a family raising a toast to the Christmas period and complete with a ‘ Season ‘s Greeting’. The card was also appreciated commercially and started a new tradition or so.
Horsley’s design was innovative because it sought to produce cards in large quantities for use during the festive season. Before this, the holiday greetings were probably written by hand or perhaps done in person. The Christmas card, thus, became an instantly received and favorite means of wishing the recipients a joyful Christmas.
The Victorian Era: A Wallowing of Innovation
There are a number of evolutions that Christmas cards experienced, but one of them was most important during the Victorian age. These lights became even more flamboyant and the cards are engraved with beautifully detailed graphics and complicated decoration. Much as Victorian aesthetics allowed for the use of enhancements such as lace, state trivia, and embossing on the cards so as to make the cards look more exquisite and compete with the luxury of the era.
This period also saw the development of one or the other themes on some Christmas cards. Holly, mistletoe, and angels were incorporated in the poster advice, as well as winter scenes and the jolly man himself – Santa Claus. The Victorian Christmas card was not merely an instrument of conveyance of a message but a piece of art that depicted the festive theme.
The 20th Century: Investment in Creativity and Efficiency in Production
What did the twentieth-century witness in the creation and manufacturing of Christmas cards in particular? This change in era destabilized new forms of print such as offset lithography and most recently digital printing. These advances produced prints of better quality and more cheaply so that Christmas cards became popular articles of commerce.
At this time the selection of History letters also grew. Recipients appreciated culturally appropriate and humorous as well as explicitly personalized greeting cards. The use of pop culture icons and topics as well as contemporary ideas in creating Christmas cards reflected the sophistication of tastes of the public.
The Digital Age: E-cards and Environmental Consciousness
The tradition of sending Christmas cards has had a new twist with the coming of the digital age. There were e-cards which could be interpreted as a modern form of Christmas cards. Such e-greetings mean that they can be delivered promptly to the recipient as well as allowing the sender to add variety to the designs made on the greeting cards and incorporate multimedia features such as moving pictures and music.
Nonetheless, this transition has led to a more significant discussion about environmental concerns in society. With an increase in concern of the effects of paper waste on the environment, people use e-cards to minimize their effects on the environment. It also means that the digital format can incorporate features and interesting views into the recipient like videos and info-graphics.
Personalisation and Customisation: The New Fashion
Personalised and customised Christmas cards have up to the recent past been on the rise in the market. With the innovations in the market, people have preferred using occasional cards that suit their personality and feelings. Nowadays, custom photo cards that allow persons to include images and personal messages on the cards have also been common.
This tendency of personal use is not limited only to the concept of the cards themselves but even contains the tendencies of the current revolutionary period in everything ranging from designs to writing styles. A lot of people are now employing the use of cards, individualized and handwritten messages among others. This focus raises awareness for a long time worrying, namely the significance of a person and his or her ability to communicate with his or her closest ones.
The Future of Christmas Cards
As we look to the future, the tradition of sending Christmas cards continues to evolve. While digital formats and eco-friendly options are likely to remain prominent, there is a growing appreciation for the tactile and sentimental value of physical cards. The balance between tradition and innovation will shape the future of Christmas cards, ensuring that they remain a cherished part of the holiday season.
In conclusion, the evolution of Christmas cards reflects broader changes in technology, culture, and environmental awareness. From their humble beginnings in the 19th century to the diverse and personalised options available today, Christmas cards have adapted to meet the needs and preferences of each era. As we celebrate the holiday season, the Christmas card remains a symbol of joy, connection, and festive spirit.
