Description

“Noel” is a word so easily used at Christmastime, is the French word for Christmas. Its very sound conjures up images of soft falling snow, candle-lit trees, creche scenes, delicious foods and smiles on children’s faces. And perhaps because France has been celebrating Christmas for the past 1500 years, nobody does it better that the French people. France was a part of the Roman Empire when the Romans adopted Christianity in the 300’s. In the 400’s, a German tribe called the Franks took over much of France. When their king, Clovis, married a Christian princess, she persuaded him to convert to her faith and in the year 496 France celebrated its first Christmas. In the medieval days, Christmas was celebrated by all with much generosity and gift giving. Food and wine were shared by all classes of people, with much dancing and singing of Christmas carols. St. Francis recreated a live Nativity scene which people displayed in their homes. In France, the first manger scene is recorded in the early 1300’s and it is clear that people loved the custom of setting out the scene at Christmastime.

Often Pere Noel is accompanied by a donkey to help him carry the many gifts. Pere Noel brings a small potted tree, which will be decorated with candies and tiny toys. The French are known to not waste anything, and this little tree will be planted after the holidays. Great bunches of mistletoe also decorate French homes. It is said to represent immortality and have healing properties, not to mention the kiss that one can capture when standing underneath it. Pere Noel wishes you a Joyeux Noel!

Collection: Reflections of Christmas

Item #: 11357

Height: 6.5 inches

Made of cold cast resin

Introduced in 2005