When it comes to bunnies or Easter I just feel like a kid ~ It’s a happy and joyful time of year. Isn’t that what spring and Easter is all about ~ rejoicing in resurrection and rebirth!
But just how did this tradition of a charming and fluffy Easter Bunny bringing colorful eggs get started? The origins of this Easter tradition lay in both pre-Christian times and the early Christianity era, in a salute to nature’s rebirth and springtime.
The first written legend of the Easter Bunny was documented as early as the 1500’s, and in the 17th century German and Dutch immigrants developed the stories of the Easter Bunny laying eggs. The eggs themselves were an ancient symbol of life, and according to Romans all life came from an egg. Christians consider eggs the seed of life symbolizing the resurrection of Christ.
In Russia and Ukraine, beautifully decorated eggs were given as presents at Easter time for centuries. Some of the most famous and beautiful eggs were made by the Russian jeweler to the Czar ~ Faberge.
The tradition of fabulous chocolate eggs started during the Victorian Era as the candy industry flourished. Of course, the Easter Bunny continued to be the messenger of spring joy, renewal ~ and now chocolate.
In Europe, spring flowers and Easter chocolates are everywhere! The chocolate shops are bursting with displays of chocolate bunnies, Easter chicks, baskets and eggs.
Last week during my antique buying trip I was in Brussels at the famous Grand Sablon Square ~ the mecca of chocolate shops. One of the oldest chocolatiers at Sablon is Wittamer. This company started in 1910 and is the Official Supplier to the Court of Belgium.
It was such fun to visit this famous chocolate shop where chocolate concoctions were displayed like precious jewels.
May you have a Happy and Joyful Easter!
S
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