Thomas Nast's circa 1885 Portrait of Santa Claus, Printed in 1980

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Artifact Overview

Thomas Nast is best known for the creation of our modern image of Santa Claus. Nast's late 19th-century illustrations popularized the depiction of a rotund, bearded, fur-clad Santa in Americans' imaginations. His drawings not only defined Santa's appearance, but also enhanced other symbols, traditions and events now associated with Christmas and the holiday's jolly old elf.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Print (Visual work)

Date Made

1980

Subject Date

circa 1885

Creator Notes

Drawn by Thomas Nast, circa 1885. This print made by The Henry Ford in 1980 using the original copper printing plate.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

56.39.1.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Paper (Fiber product)

Technique

Photoengraving (Process)

Color

Black-and-white (Colors)

Dimensions

Height: 14 in
Width: 10.75 in