Thursday, April 26, 2012

Christmas stamp 30.11.1984

The name Joulupukki means 'Yule Buck'. Joulupukki first came about as an evil, goat-like creature. He didn't give gifts to the children and he demanded their good behavior. He used to frighten people. In December, the pagan people had big festivals to ward off the Joulupukki. For some unknown reason, this evil creature transformed into a much kinder, gentler character which closely resembles the American Santa Claus. He is probably a combination of many old folk customs and beliefs from around the world. While most gift givers around the world deliver their presents in the middle of the night, while everyone is sleeping, the kids in Finland get to see Joulupukki in the act of delivering the presents, and that to, through the front door, and not through the chimney, as old Santa is won’t to do.
My dear friend Pia gave me this First Day Cover with the lovely stamp featuring Santa and a brownie, which was designed by Pirkko Vahtero and issued on 30.11.1984.

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