THESE charming black and white pictures beautifully capture the simplicity of festive seasons past in Ireland.
Shot by US photographer George Pickow, they show the wonderful innocence and traditions of Irish Christmas celebrations - from the St Stephen's Day straw and wren boys to a visit from Santa himself.
Known for photographing the folk and jazz scenes in America, Pickow accompanied his wife - singer and folklorist Jean Richie - on an 18 month trip to Ireland in the 1950s to help with a music research project she was undertaking.
As the pair recorded folk and traditional songs across Britain and Ireland, Pickow used the opportunity to capture some every day scenes of Irish life, including these Christmas images, which are dated circa 1955.
Take a look through our gallery below for more great photos...
