The Christmas Card Horsley Designed and Sent to Henry Cole

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "The Christmas Card Horsley Designed and Sent to Henry Cole", originally brought to life by the talented John Callcott Horsley. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to John Callcott Horsley and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

The Christmas Card Horsley Designed and Sent to Henry Cole by John Callcott Horsley is a significant piece in the history of visual arts and social customs, marking the inception of the widespread tradition of sending Christmas cards. Created in 1843, this card is attributed to the British artist John Callcott Horsley at the request of Sir Henry Cole, a prominent civil servant, inventor, and educator, who sought an innovative way to address his extensive list of acquaintances during the festive season. This pioneering endeavor resulted in the production of the world's first commercially printed Christmas card, heralding a new tradition that would spread globally and endure through the centuries.

The card itself measures 13.5 x 8.2 cm and features a triptych design, with the central panel depicting a family gathering toasting to the card's recipient, flanked by scenes of charitable acts—feeding the hungry and clothing the naked. This imagery not only reflects the Victorian era's emphasis on family and charity during the Christmas season but also serves as a visual representation of the social consciousness of the time. The phrase "A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You" inscribed on the card has since become a timeless holiday greeting.

Produced in a limited run of 1,000 copies, the card was initially sold for a shilling each—a price that was relatively steep for the era, which may have contributed to its initial lukewarm reception. Despite this, the concept of sending Christmas cards gained popularity, especially with the reduction of postage rates and advancements in printing technology, evolving into a cherished holiday tradition observed by millions around the world.

The Christmas Card Horsley Designed and Sent to Henry Cole by John Callcott Horsley not only marks a milestone in the commercial and cultural history of Christmas but also exemplifies the Victorian era's innovation and its influence on contemporary customs. Today, the card is recognized as a valuable piece of social history, with surviving examples held in prestigious collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of a simple yet revolutionary idea.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.