"The New Testament gives no description of the Wise Men; these stories evolved from Christian tradition and, like art, have become endowed with meaning. Melchior, Caspar and Balthasar have come to represent the three ages of man and each believes they bear the perfect gift. Melchior, an old man with thoughts of the hereafter, brings myrrh, a precious resin used for embalming. Middle-aged Balthasar bears frankincense, a resin used in making incense associated with prayer and spiritual connections, while young Caspar bears gold representing youth’s preoccupation with wordly possessions." - James Christensen