Holly branches have been a popular indoor Christmas decoration since time immemorial. Evidence from 1535 shows that people in Strasbourg (Alsace) sold hollies that were then hung up in living rooms, albeit yet without candles. 

For Christians, too, the colour combination of green and red epitomises hope and love. In this way, the two most important meanings of Christmas are combined in the holly. In the broadest sense, the evergreen tree used to be the residence of the gods and thus a sign of life in numerous cultures and religions. 

During the Victorian era (1837–1901) until the 1930s, every imaginable item of daily use was adorned with the pretty red-green holly motif. From expensive Limoges porcelain products, hairdressing sets and photo albums to countless postcards: holly berries everywhere. The exhibition vividly portrays the many different aspects of holly berries.