Livaudais Christmas Collection: "Calling Cards
The custom of using calling cards began in France sometime in the early 1800's. This practice spread throughout Europe and came to the United States in the mid 1800's. Callings cards, also known as Visiting Cards, were carried by the well-to-do of society and were presented at the time of a social visit. They were often left in special calling card receivers (trays) which was set on an entry table or parlor center table. The cards were smaller than today's business cards, frequently consisting of a name engraved and printed on glossy stock. In later years designs became more elaborate incorporating hearts, doves, scrolls, and forget-me-nots. The receiver of such splendid cards would often paste them in the family scrap book. Again, a tradition of exchanging cards was leading up to what would one day be the exchanging of Christmas cards. I'm sure Sir Henry Cole had received his share of Calling cards.
View a few examples of Calling Cards BY CLICKING HERE "