Tom McNeely (Canadian, B. 1935) "Family Cutting Christmas Tree" Signed and dated ('85) lower right. Original Watercolor on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 22c Poinsettia Plant stamp issued October 30, 1985. Among all the traditions of Christmastime, the custom of decorating the home for the holidays is both world-wide and age-old. For generations, families have cherished the tradition of journeying into the snowy woods to select the finest evergreen for a Christmas tree. Once home, the fragrant tree is laden with colorful ornaments, shiny tinsel and twinkling lights. The exact origins of the Christmas tree are not known; however, popular legend suggests that Martin Luther cut the first Christmas tree in Germany. He is said to have decorated it with sparkling candles to imitate "the starry skies of Bethlehem that Holy Night" and placed a nativity scene under its branches. Since that time, people the world over have decorated Christmas trees in celebration of the holiday. Image Size: 20 x 17 in. Overall Size: 26.75 x 22 in. Unframed. (B09697)