Christmas card
Sir Henry Cole ; designed by J.C. Horsley
1843
NAL
Special Collection Safe 2.E.3
MSL 1987/3293
In the early 19th century it was common practice to hand write seasonal messages on calling cards or in letters. In 1843, in order to save himself having to hand-write dozens of Christmas messages, Sir Henry Cole had his friend, John Calcott Horsley, design and print a batch of cards. The words printed on the card were 'A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year' much the same is still found in cards today.