As I look out into my living room at all of my Christmas decorations, I am immediately reminded of trips I have taken and the wonderful international experiences I’ve had throughout my life. From the Christmas tree ornaments I purchased in London last year to my red Czech glass vases, my holiday decorations are filled with European influences. Whether decorating or entertaining, my personal holiday style is an amalgamation of vintage and modern European customs and items (see my post on European inspired cocktails for your holiday parties). Inspired by my collection of trinkets, I decided to research the history and origins of some of them. Here are some essential elements for delightful European holiday decorations.
French Figurines
Santons (Provençal: “santoun,” or “little saint”) are small hand-painted clay nativity figurines traditionally made in France’s Provence region. The first santons were made in Marseilles in the 18th century by an artisan named Jean-Louis Lagnel. Santons are no longer limited to religious or nativity related characters. Today, one can find santons that represent almost every profession imaginable. There are two types: “santons d’argile” (hand painted figurines) and “santons habillés” (figurines dressed in cloth with accessories such as baskets, flowers, etc.) Santons can range in size from 1 inch to 6 inches tall. Mine look right at home nestled in a garland or sitting next to a votive candle.
German Woodcarvings
I am fan of Wendt und Kuehn Workshop’s adorable Angels and Flower Children. These small, brightly- colored figurines (love the polka dot angel wings) look great perched on shelves around the house during the holidays. I also have some lovely natural woodcut snowflake and floral ornaments that grace the branches of my tree each year.
Czech Glass Ornaments
My grandmother had a wonderful collection of Czech glass ornaments that I inherited. These vivid, intricate balls look beautiful as they reflect the lights on my Christmas tree. I’ve been known to pile them up in a glass bowl or cylindrical vase for a classy, unique centerpiece. I’ve also seen them hot-glued in clumps into wreaths- this is a great way to repurpose vintage ornaments that have been scratched or cracked.
Spanish Fruits and Flowers
In Spanish homes, one always finds a plethora of fresh fruit and flowers around the holidays. Inspired by this custom, I fill vases with pine branches and red, green and white blossoms (though not particularly Spanish, Fuji mums are especially lovely) and place them throughout the main areas of the house. A bowl of fresh fruit on the counter keeps the kitchen bright through the long winter. A fancy pressed glass or crystal fruit bowl flanked by candles also makes a nice centerpiece. Happy decorating!
