Santa's Workshop

Warmth spills across every corner of this holiday scene painted by Thomas Kinkade in 2000. Santa has settled into a green armchair with a mug in hand, taking a break beside a roaring stone fireplace while a friendly polar bear rests at his feet. All around him the workshop buzzes with activity, as little elves finish toys, wrap presents, and dart between piles of gifts. A tall Christmas tree sparkles in the corner, stockings dangle above the flames, and the room brims with so many tiny details that a single glance can never catch them all.

Kinkade was known as the "Painter of Light," and this picture explains why. Glowing warmth pours in from all directions at once, the fire, the candles, the frosty windows, and the twinkling tree, wrapping the whole scene in a soft golden haze. His cheerful, sentimental style made him hugely popular with regular folks, though some critics felt his work leaned too heavily on sweetness. Personal taste aside, the painting nails that snug, magical mood so many people connect with Christmas.