Ed Little (American, B. 1957) "Santa Clause at the Chimney Checking His List" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Canvas Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was featured on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 29c Santa Checking His List stamp issue of October 17, 1991. "He's making a list, checking it twice; gonna find out who's naughty or nice. Santa Claus is coming to town." During the Christmas season, this popular song can be heard over the radio, in elevators and shopping malls across America. Holiday traditions in the United States have their own unique characteristics. And Santa Claus -- so dear to the hearts of the nation's children -- is truly an American original. Developed as a character during the early 19th century, Santa Claus doffed his saintly attributes and assumed more secular, non-religious attributes. He came to personify the joyful Yuletide qualities of kindness, generosity and cheerfulness of spirit which everyone regardless of faith -- could relate to. Like England's Father Christmas, Santa Claus delivers presents to children on Christmas Eve, but he keeps a list of their requests and leaves gifts only for good boys and girls. Bad children received only lumps of coal. Thus, as the holiday approaches, many parents humorously remind their youngsters to behave -- because Santa is watching and checking his list! Image Size: 28.25 x 24.25 in. Overall Size: 36.5 x 30 in. Unframed. (B13363)