Size 4" x 5 1/2" (width - height)

The "Partridge in a Pear Tree" verse is associated with a Twelfth Night tradition known as wassailing the fruit tree.  Wassail or "waes hael" means "be whole" and is translated roughly as "good health".  Since ancient times, fruit has been a symbol of fertility, and is related to abundance. Furthermore, the apple has traditionally represented the woman, and the pear, the man. It's interesting to note that the reference to a partridge in a pear tree is likely to be the British red-legged partridge, because it is well known for its proclivity to perch in trees.  It is also renown for producing prodigious quantities of progeny.  To sum it all up, this verse reflects Christmas wishes for life, good health and prosperity.