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Balthazar’s Baubles

Introduction
Baubles were once glass balls for Christmas trees but now include other shapes and figures. Made in Lauscha, Germany since 1847 and introduced here by Prince Albert, their popularity soared when the Illustrated London News showed Queen Victoria’s tree in 1848 - seen on our Christmas Chantry page.

 Illuminated nativity scene.
Vintage baubles, 1900-50. 

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Hazle Ceramics
Balthazar’s Baubles
Limited Mould of 50
on Canterbury Priest’s
Mould altered for title
Added 22ct gold

 Journey of the Magi by James Tissot, 1836-1902. Some Western artists painted Arab dress as above, not Persian as left.
 Red “Canterbury Crown” decoration.

2009 Christmas Set 1/3

UK/Europe £56.50
Rest of World £49.13

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 Journey of the Magi by Tissot. Some artists paint Arab dress as above, not Persian as left.

 Red “Canterbury Crown” decoration.

The Three Kings
Appearing only in Matthew 2, who simply says the wise men are “from the east” and follow a star to worship the Christ “born King of the Jews”. As three gifts are recorded, it has been assumed there were three magi. Gold symbolises kingship, frankincense is for priesthood and myrrh is both an anointing and embalming oil. Epiphany on 6 January is the traditional date of their visit.

Canterbury Cathedral tree decorations. 

 If the Kings’ given names are in gift order, Caspar (gold crown) is centre, Melchior (frankincense) is left and Balthazar (myrrh) is right.