The 12 Days of Christmas Dickens Village, a beloved Christmas tradition, captures the charm and warmth of Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tales. Each piece in this enchanting series represents a different day of Christmas, adorned with exquisite details and heartwarming symbolism.
From the bustling streets of Victorian London to the cozy interiors of festive homes, the Dickens Village transports collectors and enthusiasts alike to a bygone era filled with the spirit of Christmas.
Dickens Village History
The Dickens Village concept originated in the 1970s, inspired by the charming illustrations in Charles Dickens’ beloved Christmas stories.
Department 56, a renowned Christmas collectible company, launched the first Dickens Village pieces in 1976. These miniature buildings and figurines captured the essence of Victorian England and the heartwarming spirit of Dickens’ tales.
Popularity and Tradition
The Dickens Village quickly gained popularity, becoming a cherished Christmas tradition for many families. Collectors eagerly sought out new pieces each year, creating elaborate displays that transformed their homes into enchanting Victorian villages.
Iconic Pieces
Some of the most iconic Dickens Village pieces include:
- The Old Curiosity Shop
- Fezziwig’s Warehouse
- The Cratchit Family Home
- The Royal Exchange
- The Pickwick Club
These timeless pieces evoke the magic and nostalgia of Dickens’ Christmas classics, bringing the Victorian era to life in miniature.
12 Days of Christmas Dickens Village
The “12 Days of Christmas” Dickens Village series is a charming collection of miniature buildings and figurines that depict the beloved Christmas carol.
Each piece in the series represents a different day of Christmas, from the first day with its “partridge in a pear tree” to the twelfth day with its “twelve drummers drumming.”
Significance of Gifts and Symbols
The different gifts and symbols associated with each day of Christmas have special meanings:
- Partridge in a pear tree:True love
- Two turtle doves:Peace and harmony
- Three French hens:Faith, hope, and charity
- Four calling birds:The four gospels
- Five gold rings:The five wounds of Christ
- Six geese a-laying:The six days of creation
- Seven swans a-swimming:The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit
- Eight maids a-milking:The eight beatitudes
- Nine ladies dancing:The nine fruits of the Holy Spirit
- Ten lords a-leaping:The ten commandments
- Eleven pipers piping:The eleven faithful apostles
- Twelve drummers drumming:The twelve apostles
Collecting Dickens Village
Dickens Village pieces have become highly sought-after collectibles due to their intricate craftsmanship, nostalgic charm, and association with the beloved works of Charles Dickens.
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Collectors come from diverse backgrounds and have varying motivations. Some are drawn to the historical significance of the pieces, while others appreciate their artistic value. Some collect to create festive holiday displays, while others simply enjoy the joy of assembling and owning a piece of Dickens’ world.
Starting and Maintaining a Dickens Village Collection
- Define your collection goals:Determine the scope of your collection (e.g., specific characters, buildings, or themes) and set a budget.
- Research and learn:Familiarize yourself with the history of Dickens Village, different series and editions, and the work of various artists.
- Attend collectors’ events:Attend shows, exhibitions, and online forums to connect with other collectors and find rare pieces.
- Store your collection properly:Protect your pieces from dust, moisture, and damage by storing them in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.
- Display and enjoy:Create festive holiday displays or showcase your collection year-round to appreciate its beauty and share it with others.
Dickens Village Display Ideas
Displaying your Dickens Village pieces can be a fun and creative way to bring the holiday spirit into your home. There are many different ways to arrange your village, so you can create a unique and festive display that reflects your own personal style.
One popular way to display a Dickens Village is to create a winter wonderland scene. This can be done by using white and blue fabrics to create a snowy landscape, and adding Christmas trees, snowmen, and other winter-themed decorations. You can also use artificial snow to create a more realistic effect.
Lighting
Lighting is an important part of any Dickens Village display. The right lighting can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, and it can also highlight the details of your village pieces. You can use a variety of different lighting techniques to create the perfect look for your display.
- String lights:String lights are a great way to add a festive touch to your Dickens Village display. You can use white or colored lights, and you can hang them around the perimeter of your display or drape them over your village buildings.
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- Spotlights:Spotlights can be used to highlight specific areas of your display. This can be a great way to draw attention to your favorite village pieces or to create a focal point in your display.
- Candles:Candles can add a warm and inviting glow to your Dickens Village display. Be sure to use battery-operated candles for safety, and place them in a safe location where they will not be knocked over.
Dickens Village Restoration and Repair: 12 Days Of Christmas Dickens Village
Preserving the beauty and functionality of your Dickens Village pieces is essential to ensure their longevity and enjoyment for generations to come. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent damage, but accidents do happen. This guide provides information on cleaning, repairing, and restoring your Dickens Village pieces, as well as discussing the availability of professional restoration services.
Cleaning Dickens Village Pieces, 12 days of christmas dickens village
- Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe away dust and debris.
- For stubborn dirt or grime, use a slightly damp cloth and mild dish soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Rinse the piece with clean water and dry it thoroughly.
Repairing Damaged Dickens Village Pieces
- For minor damage, such as broken wires or loose parts, use a small amount of super glue or epoxy to repair the damage.
- For more extensive damage, such as broken or missing pieces, you may need to contact a professional restorer.
Restoring Dickens Village Pieces
- If your Dickens Village piece has been damaged beyond repair, it may be possible to restore it to its original condition.
- Professional restorers can repair or replace damaged parts, repaint the piece, and even recreate missing pieces.
Professional Restoration Services
If you are not comfortable repairing or restoring your Dickens Village pieces yourself, there are professional restorers who can help. These restorers have the skills and experience to repair even the most severely damaged pieces.
Summary
Whether displayed as a cherished collection or used to create enchanting holiday scenes, the 12 Days of Christmas Dickens Village offers a timeless way to celebrate the magic and wonder of the Christmas season.
Helpful Answers
What is the origin of the 12 Days of Christmas Dickens Village?
The concept originated in the early 20th century, inspired by the popularity of Charles Dickens’ Christmas stories and the desire to create miniature representations of Victorian Christmas scenes.
What are the different pieces in the 12 Days of Christmas Dickens Village series?
The series includes 12 individual pieces, each representing a different day of Christmas, such as “The Partridge in a Pear Tree,” “Two Turtle Doves,” and “Twelve Drummers Drumming.”
What is the significance of the different gifts and symbols associated with each day of the 12 Days of Christmas?
The gifts and symbols hold religious and cultural meanings, representing the 12 days of Christmastide, the period between Christmas Day and Epiphany.
How can I start and maintain a Dickens Village collection?
Start by choosing pieces that you find particularly meaningful or visually appealing. Consider your display space and the overall theme you want to create. Regularly clean and store your pieces properly to preserve their condition.
