From the era of Victorian opulence and tradition come images of jolly Father Christmas, excited children, holly wreaths and mince pies. Each page is illustrated with multilayered pictures of antique greetings cards, paper toys and games and other memorabilia displayed against brocades and velvets, rare ornaments and unusual collectibles. With articles and poems, songs and tales from around the world, the accompanying text introduces us to the origins of Father Christmas, the Christmas tree and its many decorations, along with all the other symbols of the season, and recounts the lore, legends, myths and manners of a classic Victorian Christmas.