Old Russian Christmas cards have high value among collectors as they present rare works of the pre-revolutionary period and reflect Russian history and traditions. 

 The first Russian Christmas cards were printed in 1898 with a charitable purpose by the community of St. Eugenia. A series of ten copies of watercolors by St. Petersburg's artists were issued in order to raise funds for the Russian Red Cross. Although these postcards didn't include any text or “Merry Christmas!” inscription, they all had Christmas images. 

First Russian Christmas cards depicted the Child Jesus in the manger,

or a flying angel,  

churches or snow-covered houses
 

The windows were lighted or even opened to symbolize comfort, warmth, hospitality and kindness.

In the beginning of XXth century Russian style has become popular – troika (three horses harnessed abreast),
 
 

winter amusements 

and peasant children. 
 

Traditionally children walked along the streets with a star resembling the Star of Bethlehem and glorified Christ.
  

We hope you enjoyed our gallery. To see more unique Christmas cards you can visit this and this pages. Old Soviet New Year cards you can see here.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Natalia Semicheva. 

Sources: Liveinternet, www.ote4estvo.ru, www.christmasheaven.ru.