It’s the odd assortment of ornaments – the old, seemingly worn-out ones – that we proudly make a fuss over as we hang them on the Christmas tree or place on the mantel every year. Those are the ones we celebrate, the ones we look forward to discovering again and again as we carefully unpack them from cushions of foam or wads of tissue.

The decorated tree itself predates modern history, as the ancient Egyptians are thought to have adorned their homes with evergreen boughs during the winter solstice. Romans, Druids and Vikings are reputed as having done the same. The tree took on a Christian aura in 16th century Germany when fruits and candles were used to decorate during the holiday season.