Description

Twelve Days of Christmas Eight Maids A Milking Ornament by P. Buckley Moss

Content & Subject
Twelve Days of Christmas Eight Maids A Milking Ornament by P. Buckley Moss is a numbered, limited edition porcelain ornament that brings to life one of the most charming verses of the beloved Christmas carol. As part of both the Moss Ornament Collection and the Moss Twelve Days of Christmas Collection, this lively, whimsical piece celebrates storytelling, tradition, and Moss’s unmistakable folk-art joy.

At the heart of Twelve Days of Christmas Eight Maids A Milking Ornament, eight young maids gather around a gentle, pastel-colored cow, each one dressed in beautifully patterned skirts, aprons, and pinafores. Their clothing—rendered in Moss’s signature blend of soft colors, elongated forms, and checked patterns—adds delightful movement and rhythm to the scene. The maids appear in various poses: some milking, some patting or steadying the cow, others simply watching with cheerful expressions. The cow itself, with its dreamy lavender and soft blue hues, radiates calm patience as it stands gracefully in the center of the circle.

Surrounding the maids are Moss’s playful blackbirds—small, charming figures that bring a touch of humor and continuity to her work. The background is a rich berry red, which contrasts beautifully with the soft blues and golds of the ornament’s border. The outer ring displays the handwritten lyric: “On the eighth day of Christmas my true love sent to me…” encircling the artwork in a golden script that feels musical and celebratory.

Twelve Days of Christmas Eight Maids A Milking Ornament radiates joy, movement, and festive delight—perfectly capturing the spirited charm of this verse from the famous carol.

Style & Technique
Rendered in Moss’s signature folk-art style, Twelve Days of Christmas Eight Maids A Milking Ornament features expressive figures, soft textures, and a vibrant, storybook-like composition. The porcelain surface enhances every detail—from the delicate brushstrokes in the maids’ garments to the subtle speckling and coloration of the cow.

As a numbered limited edition, Twelve Days of Christmas Eight Maids A Milking Ornament preserves the clarity and richness of Moss’s fine detailing. The design’s circular composition creates balanced storytelling, pulling the viewer’s eye from each maid to the cow and then outward to the golden script that completes the narrative arc.

The palette—rich berries, soft lavenders, cool blues, touches of warm gold—creates a harmonious blend of holiday festivity and gentle nostalgia.

Mood & Inspiration
The mood of Twelve Days of Christmas Eight Maids A Milking Ornament is joyful, musical, and richly nostalgic. Moss draws inspiration from the timeless Christmas carol, celebrating its whimsical imagery through the innocence and friendliness of her figures. The maids represent community, cooperation, and the shared joy of seasonal tradition.

The playful blackbirds, the tender cow, and the lively poses create a sense of cheer that feels both festive and deeply rooted in folk culture. This ornament honors not only the famous song but also the spirit of giving, gathering, and storytelling at Christmastime.

Placement & Gift Ideas
Twelve Days of Christmas Eight Maids A Milking Ornament is perfect for hanging on a Christmas tree with the included cord or displaying on a tiny easel alongside other pieces from the Twelve Days of Christmas series. Its bright colors and lyrical border make it a standout focal point in holiday décor.

Twelve Days of Christmas Eight Maids A Milking Ornament is a wonderful gift for Moss collectors, fans of the Twelve Days of Christmas series, lovers of folk art, and anyone who enjoys joyful, narrative holiday pieces. It is perfect for Christmas gifting, carol-themed décor, collectors’ sets, and seasonal celebrations.

Includes a Certificate of Authenticity. (see FAQs)

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✨ Fun Fact:
The “maids a-milking” verse from the carol traditionally symbolizes nourishment and community—two themes that align beautifully with Moss’s emphasis on family, tradition, and the simple joys of daily life.

🎁 Collector’s Insight:
As part of the Moss Twelve Days of Christmas Collection, this ornament is treasured for its energy, its storytelling, and its charming cast of expressive young figures. Collectors often enjoy displaying all Twelve Days together, creating a musical, visual narrative across their holiday décor.

1999

Size: 3-5/16 inches diameter.

Any number of ornaments ship for the flat rate of $12.60

🎁 Available through Canada Goose Gallery in Waynesville, Ohio — your trusted source for the art of P. Buckley Moss.