Customs and Traditions
Carol-singing in the squire’s house
Victorian illustration to download showing a village choir singing Christmas carols in the squire’s house. The squire and his wife listen intently.
Irish tradition: breaking the New Year’s Eve cake
Victorian illustration to download showing an Irish tradition, the breaking of the cake cooked on New Year’s Eve. A boy throws the cake against the door. Family and friends gather…
Irish tradition: New Year’s Eve cake
Victorian illustration to download showing an Irish tradition, the baking of a cake on New Year’s Eve. The cake cooks on a griddle in the fireplace of a cottage. Family…
Christmas mistletoe: ballroom scene, 18th century
Victorian illustration to download showing an 18th-century scene: dancers at a Christmas ball pause under the mistletoe.
Gathering holly and a Christmas tree
Victorian illustration to download showing a country family gathering holly and a Christmas tree and loading them on a donkey cart.
House of Commons: the Bar
Victorian illustration to download showing a man standing at the Bar of the House of Commons, accompanied by the Sergeant-at-Arms with his mace over his shoulder.
Hot cross buns brought by a baker’s boy
Victorian illustration to download showing a baker’s boy delivering hot cross buns for Good Friday to a family standing outside their front door.
Twelfth Night custom: firing at apple trees
Victorian illustration to download showing a Devonshire Twelfth Night custom: men fire guns at cider apple trees to ensure a good crop of apples.
Children round Christmas tree
Victorian illustration showing children at a children's party grouped round a Christmas tree lit with candles. Parents and adults look on.