The roots of Christmas trace back to the Christian observance of the birth of Christ on December 25th. Since the early 20th century, it has evolved into a secular holiday adorned with a myriad of decorations, rituals, and themes. In the true spirit of the holiday season, Phaidon’s latest publication invites readers on a captivating visual journey through the extensive history of Christmas, reaching back to its inception. Beginning with a glimpse into a 10th-century gospel book cover, The Christmas Book unfolds with over 200 meticulously selected images, spanning across cultures and historical periods where the holiday holds significance. Within its pages, readers encounter a 16th-century Botticelli painting depicting the nativity, Giuseppe Sammartino’s 18th-century terra cotta angel sculpture, an enchanting illustration from the first edition of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, and Andy Warhol’s whimsical Fairy and Christmas Ornaments drawings from the 1950s. Iconic contributions from figures like Alexander McQueen from the ’80s and ’90s further enrich the narrative. Beyond its visual splendor, the book presents three compelling essays inspired by the holiday, including a piece by Dolph Gotelli, a professor unraveling the evolution and lore of Saint Nicholas from the third century to the present day, offering a nuanced perspective on the timeless question of childhood:
“Is there a Santa Claus?” This quintessential holiday gift is not only a delight for Christmas enthusiasts but also a treasure for those fascinated by art, design, and pop culture.

Christmas Classics

It Seems Like Yesterday

Claus Célèbre