Old World Christmas ornaments are beloved by those who celebrate the holidays. With their complex designs, hand-wrought details, and rich historical underpinnings, these ornaments make even more magical the magic of Christmas in a way few other decorations can. The mood of Old World Christmas ornaments: And if you’re a long-time collector or a new arrival to the vintage holiday decor circuit, Old World Christmas ornaments — in all their kitschy glory — are the summer blockbuster of the ornaments world.
What Are Old World Christmas Ornaments?
Old World Christmas ornaments are more than just decorations — they are art, craftsmanship and history all rolled into one. These ornaments date back to Germany in the 1800s and, while some are molded, they tend to be hand-blown from glass and hand-painted, showcasing the talent of master artisans. Their motifs tend to evoke traditional Christmas imagery, from angels and Santa Claus to whimsical snowflakes, woodland creatures and tiny tableaux celebrating the holiday.
History of Old World Christmas Ornaments
Old World Christmas ornaments have their origin in a small town named Lauscha, Germany, regarded as the birthplace of glass blowing. In the early 1800s, artisans in Lauscha started making glass ornaments for Christmas trees, a tradition that soon spread throughout Europe and, eventually, much of the world.
Key Fact: The first glass Christmas ornaments were made in Lauscha, Germany, in the 1840s.
Fun Fact: Glassblowing was a closely guarded craft, handed down from father to son in the region, and artisans made everything from glass animals to intricate tree decorations.
By the late 1800s, they had become a staple of the holiday celebrations across Europe, livening up Christmas trees with their color and warmth. Gradually, these unusual ornaments became widely popular, especially in the USA, where they were first imported in the early 20th century.
Why We Love Old World Christmas Ornaments
Handcrafted Excellence
Old World Christmas ornaments are known for their craftsmanship. Each ornament is usually handmade, sometimes using techniques that have been handed down for centuries. The glass is hand-blown, and a team of skilled artisans paints on the intricate details.
Key Fact: No two ornaments are alike, each taking hours of work to complete.
More Detail: The meticulous craftsmanship leads to intricately and elaborately detailed designs, from the brilliant hues to the short brushstrokes on the surfaces painted.
A Fond Farewell to a Christmas Long Gone
They remind one of a simpler time. They take us through the way we used to do things during Christmas in the old country. Whether it’s a hand-painted Santa Claus or a vintage car carrying a Christmas tree, each piece tells a story that links the present to the past.
Key Fact: Founded in 1979, the Old World Christmas Company has since grown the collection to more than 1,400 designs, celebrating the tradition of handcrafted ornaments while incorporating fresh twists and themes as new collections each year.
A Global Tradition
Although the ornaments originate from Germany, their popularity has gone global. Now they are beloved by collectors and holiday decorators worldwide, and collectors often seek rare or limited-edition pieces to expand their collections.
Key Fact: Old World Christmas ornaments are sold in more than 40 countries, and their designs encompass classic holiday figures to contemporary takes on seasonal themes.
What Are The Different Types Of Old World Christmas Ornaments
Old World Christmas ornaments are available in a large variety of styles, so it’s easy to find something that suits your specific holiday decorating vibe. Let’s go into detail about the most popular styles of ornaments to buy.
Abiding Christmas Ornaments
These are traditional holiday motifs such as angels, snowmen, Santa Claus and reindeer. Many of these ornaments are meant to remind you of a traditional holiday celebration filled with warmth and joy.
Key Fact: Ornaments depicting Santa Claus, especially those from the 1950s era, are among the most coveted pieces for collectors.
Animals and Nature-Themed Ornaments
Old World Christmas ornaments also include an array of animals, from woodland creatures such as owls and squirrels, to exotic animals like elephants and peacocks. Many of these designs showcase the beauty and majesty of nature, appealing to nature lovers as well as collectors.
Fun Fact: The range of animals portrayed in these ornaments is virtually limitless. Some even have whimsical touches such as animals in festive garb!
Vintage Car and Transportation Ornaments
A favorite among Old World Christmas ornament types, these ornaments take the form of vintage cars, trucks or trains, sometimes with holiday decorations like trees and gifts. They have a nostalgic retro vibe, sounding like the Christmases of the 1950s and 1960s.
Key Fact: These vintage transportation ornaments are highly sought after by collectors with a passion for mid-century nostalgia.
Themed Ornaments
Old World Christmas also offers more modern and creative themes, like food, music, sports and hobbies, in addition to traditional motifs. These themed pieces give collectors a chance to customize their holiday decor by making ornaments that show their personal interests.
More Information: Novelty ornaments themed around pastimes or favorite foods have become increasingly trendy as folks aim to personalize their Christmas tree for a more idiosyncratic look.
Hanging Old World Christmas Ornaments
Make a Centerpiece on Your Tree
Less is always more when decorating your Christmas tree with Old World ornaments. Intricate pieces like these should be hung where they can be appreciated without overcrowding the tree. Place them at eye level or in the middle of the tree to draw attention to their beauty.
Use Display Stands
Many ornaments from the Old World are also meant to be displayed on their own. Display stands or shadow boxes can help preserve your collection while displaying it as a lovely holiday focal point.
Mix It Up with Modern Decor
While Old World ornaments have a classic, vintage aesthetic, they can be intermixed with more modern ornaments for an eclectic and unique holiday display. These ornaments evoke a kind of spirit, and pairing them with contemporary garlands or LED lights creates a festive old-meets-new fusion.
10 Reasons To Collect Old World Christmas Ornaments
They Make Beautiful Heirlooms
Ornaments from Old World Christmas are designed to endure. These ornaments are lovingly handcrafted and meant to be handed down from family to family. Their classic beauty means they never go out of style, and they can make excellent additions to any family tradition.
Fact to know: Old World ornaments are sometimes collected each year by families, leading to a beloved collection of ornaments.
They Are Rare Collectibles
Because many Old World Christmas ornaments are handcrafted and produced in limited runs, some become quite collectible. Limited or rare edition pieces may increase in value over time, which makes them great for collectors who want to invest their money.
My Goodie Bag: An extra detail: The rarity and unique design of certain ornaments can cause their value to reach new heights, especially if they are no longer in production.
How to Buy Old World Christmas Ornaments
Old World Christmas ornaments are sold at a range of retail outlets, from niche boutique shops to online marketplaces. Well known retailers like the Old World Christmas Company and Port City Peddler have large collections of these lovely ornaments.
Key Fact: Online stores often feature ornaments not available in shops, including limited editions and seasonal releases, making it possible to discover something special.
Fun Fact: The Old World Christmas Company has been designing and selling ornaments since 1979, and they release new designs yearly.
Conclusions
Old World Christmas ornaments are not just holiday decorations; they’re pieces of history, artisanship and nostalgia. Whether you’re expanding your existing collection, beginning a new holiday tradition, or just trying to inject a little vintage whimsy into your celebrations, these ornaments have a timelessness that ensures they’ll be enjoyed for many more seasons to come.
