Stuff You Missed in History Class Greeting Cards
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Apr 27, 2026 They trace greeting card precursors from ancient Egyptian scarabs and Chinese wooden tablets to Roman and medieval traditions. They follow 19th century turning points like Henry Cole and Esther Howland and the rise of chromolithography. They cover commercialization, famous artists on cards, and how a modern multi-billion dollar industry adapts to pandemic and Gen Z trends.
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Egyptian Scarabs Acted As Greeting Tokens
- Ancient Egyptians used scarab amulets as greeting tokens conveying good luck and New Year wishes.
- Scarabs often bore inscriptions like names, mottos, or prayers and were interpreted as physical greeting gifts by recipients.
Chinese Wooden Tablets Were Formal Visiting Cards
- Early China used wooden visiting tablets from the Han Dynasty as formal greeting cards for officials and dignitaries.
- Excavated tablets include simple bows and wishes like "You Thuang Chau bows repeatedly, asks for your well-being," showing ceremonial etiquette.
Chinese New Year Cards Carried Social Risk
- Tang dynasty China produced spring festival paper cards that became socially significant and could affect a person's reputation.
- A poorly written New Year greeting could damage social standing, making card-writing a stressful etiquette practice.