The Meaning Behind Our Glass Christmas Ornament Shapes
The Meaning of Glass Shapes – Figurative Christmas Ornaments
Most of the glass molds we still use today originate from the so-called "Golden Years" of Christmas ornament production (between 1870 and 1920).
Glass Baubles: are closely associated with the apple because of their round shape. They symbolize paradise as well as eternity, since they have neither a beginning nor an end.
Glass Bells: ring in the "Holy Night" and welcome the New Year.
Icicles: are a symbol of winter.
Sun & Moon: symbolize faith in destiny. The Sun represents the winter solstice and a new beginning. The Moon was believed to influence winter weather and therefore had to be appeased.
Santa Claus: eagerly awaited by children as the bringer of gifts, yet traditionally also respected as a figure of discipline.
Angels: perhaps the most important Christmas figure – heavenly protectors and guardian angels that everyone needs.
Dwarfs & Goblins: characters from the magical world of fairy tales that remind us of childhood and represent diligent, secret craftsmen everyone would love to have around.
Dogs & Cats: The dog is man's best friend and loyal protector. Cats are beloved and useful companions, always carrying an air of mystery.
Teddy Bears: symbolize strength and courage. Traditionally, these qualities were considered essential for men as providers and protectors of the family, especially during harsh winters.
Birds: symbolize nature. Birds on the Christmas tree were believed to call migratory birds back home and encourage the return of spring. Caged birds represent domestic harmony. A pair of birds on a bauble symbolizes the wish for a lifelong partnership. In the glassblowing regions, this was especially important because the men were glassblowers while the women and children decorated the fragile ornaments. The owl symbolizes knowledge and wisdom and has long been regarded as a magical creature.
Toys: dolls, drums, spinning tops, cars, and many other things that remind us of a happy and carefree childhood.
Fruits: symbolize the abundance of nature and originated from the glass fruits once produced for the hat and jewelry industries.
.. Nuts symbolize strength, mystery, and hidden treasures.
.. Pine Cones symbolize fertility and growth.
.. Fly Agaric Mushrooms symbolize good luck.
.. Apples symbolize summer, while their red color represents the ruby. Apples on a Christmas tree remind us of paradise and a blessed Christmas season.