Parting the Mists

Here we are with the three plants that historically most represent the season, for the decorated tree is a relative newcomer. The soft light of the sunrise shows us the three dancing in a circle, while a passage tomb is also in the background. The cycle of life and death embodied.

Have a beautiful day!

Holy, Ivy, and Mistletoe 

First, we see three people personifying the well-known greenery of winter celebrations: Holly, Ivy, and Mistletoe. Holly is considered a masculine plant and represents protection, among other things. Ivy is a feminine plant and represents death and rebirth, among other things. Mistletoe is a sacred plant representing fertility and more. All three of them were brought in during the winter because they were green and symbolized that life continues even in the dead of winter. An interesting folklore bit is that whichever plant – Holly or Ivy – came into the house first in winter indicated whether the man or the woman would rule the house for the year. 

Also note the background – it appears to be a passage tomb or a similar ancient structure in the background with the winter sun rising up, possibly the solstice sun, which strengthens the concept of death and rebirth in this card. And even a hint of a sleigh and elf are on one side, suggesting gifts, travel, and festivities for the day.

StoryWorld: Christmas Tales by John and Caitlin Matthews, art (this card) by Maggie Kneen