Brimming cheer (1843)
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A Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year.
An example of the world's first commercial Christmas card produced in 1843. Designed by John Callcott Horsley, R A, who was notably the brother-in-law of Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The card was commissioned by Henry Cole, later to become Sir Henry, first director of the Victoria and Albert Museum.One thousand copies of the card were later lithographed, coloured and sold for one shilling each at Felix Summerly's Home Treasure Office, Cole's own art shop in Bond Street, London. Panels either side of the main image show scenes of Christian charity; feeding of the hungry and clothing of the naked. The recipients name was to be entered at the top and the sender could sign at the bottom.
The card's appearance caused much controversy, as it was felt to promote drunkenness and general intemperance. The central image shows a fine Victorian family enjoying a sumptuous Christmas feast, where all three generations (including the children) drink to the health of the card's recipient.
Location: Early and Fine Printing Collection Box Number 816469
