For many, Easter is understood as a single day: the Sunday on which Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. But Easter (or Eastertide) is actually a fifty day period of celebration—from Easter Sunday to the Pentecost ("penta" derived from the Greek word for "five" -- in this case, five periods of ten days). The first eight days of Eastertide are called The Octave of Easter (Easter Sunday through the next Sunday). And the day after Easter is called Easter Monday.
The name "Easter Monday" has been in-use since the Early Renaissance (the 1400's). It has never been much-celebrated in America, however, it is an important national holiday in many predominantly-Christian countries around the world. It extends the Easter holiday, allowing families to rest and celebrate from Good Friday through Easter Monday. Different countries have adopted specific practices for the day. In Poland and Czech Republic, it's called "Wet Monday" in which people might wake-up their friends or siblings by pouring water on them. Many European countries (or countries of European ancestry) celebrate the day with outdoor activities: sporting events, hikes or family picnics. And, on the U.S. White House lawn, children (along with the President and the First Family) have been celebrating Easter Monday with an "Egg Rolling" Contest (since 1878).
The Irish use Easter Monday to commemorate those lost to the "Easter Uprising" against British occupation which began on Easter Monday. (24 April 1916). Eastern Orthodox Christians and Byzantine Rite Catholics sometimes refer to Easter Monday as "Bright Monday" (and the first day of "Bright Week").
This sunny Art Deco vase bears the classic urn form, decorated with two botanically-inspired handles. The rich yellow glaze makes the piece a joy to behold—a "spot of sunshine" brought into the house. Click on the photo above to learn more about it.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
We also can be found in Pittsburgh's historic "Strip District" at Mahla & Co. Antiques (www.mahlaantiques.com) or in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania at The Antique Center of Strabane (www.antiquecenterofstrabane.com).
Or call to arrange to visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only). 917-446-4248