Many of the first Christmas cards a century and a half ago had botanical themes with petals of meanings. Mistletoe for instance had been noted by the ancient Celts in a surprising way. Poinsettia a New World bloom came only late to be associated with Christmas. The recipient of a card bearing a Christmas red rose would know that its holiday wish hinted at something different than a card embossed with daisies or violets. Author Nina Pinsky interprets the hidden meanings of the blossoms bouquets and wreaths pictured in this charming treasury of antique Christmas cards. This full colour hardback explores Christmas past through greetings card illustrations and other printed material.