Victorian Christmas Greetings Card with Santa & Children

The first thing that strikes a modern viewer is how cramped this umbrella situation actually is — three faces pressed together under one dark canopy in a blizzard, with Santa sporting a deeply ruddy complexion, a white fur-trimmed coat, and gray gloves. The blonde child in blue is grinning directly at us like she's in on the bit, while the brunette in green clutches the umbrella handle and gazes up at Santa with the kind of adoration usually reserved for cult leaders. Both girls have matching red ribbon bows in their hair, which is either precious Victorian symmetry or evidence of a very controlling gift-giver. Framed by a gold lace border and the words 'Christmas Greetings,' the whole composition radiates the energy of a hostage situation dressed up in satin.