33.00 USD

Our favorite image of Mlle. de Merode. Her costume captures the era for us, and her pose is so beautifully graceful. Her expression is, as always, priceless.

A lovely card in very nice condition with very minor foxing and tanning.
Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

22.00 USD

This is a beautiful card produced by Raphael Kirchner, and published by M.M.Vienne.

If you feverishly research your cards, as we do, you may at some point be led astray by the text on the back of this one, "M.M. Vienne." This is not a person's name, but rather, M.M. are the publisher's initials, and Vienne, the city of origin, Vienna, as in Austria, where the card was published. M. M. stands either for Max Munk, or Marcus Munk, as even this depends upon your source of information. Ostensibly reliable sources come out on both sides of this one. But, M.M. Vienne, is definitely NOT the artist's name, which is a very common error you may find repeated elsewhere.

Of course we hate to admit it, but we have definitely wandered down the wrong path more than once when researching our cards, following well meaning researchers, dealers, bloggers, who themselves had been misled before us, so that only later do we discover that so and so was not an opera singer, but a stage actress of a different generation, or that thus and such was not the name of a photographer, but instead, the name of a district in a European city.

This interwebs is tricksy,
Slick and sluice, its quags and mires.
Wander wary, lest ye slipsy,
Down the deepsome danks and dires!

Apologies to Lewis Carroll :)

Munk published almost countless illustrated images of beautiful women in Art Nouveau style by a large number of artists. Probably the most commonly seen Munk ladies were done by the great Raimund Wichera, who today has faded somewhat into obscurity. Raphael Kirchner, on the other hand, has grown if not more widely known than he was at the height of his popularity in the early 1900s, certainly more collectible, and valued in terms of the artistic quality of his work. Cards out of this particular series are, like many of Wichera's "M.M. Vienne" cards, unsigned, but it has been long established that this series was produced by Raphael Kirchner.

There are a couple of tiny chips out of this card, at one corner, and along the edge, and the card is priced accordingly. The image of the lovely young woman is NOT embossed, though it may appear to be in the scan, and the crimping along the edges was decoratively intentional, and appears on almost all cards out of this series we've found.
Please examine our high res scans carefully for detail.

For more on Kirchner, please read the wonderful summary below, that we found on the website ArtHistory.net. We usually write our own listings, but this is great. Informative, concise, and we certainly couldn't have done it better!



"Introduction to the Artist Raphael Kirchner
By ArtHistory.net



Vienna-born artist Raphael Kirchner was born in 1876. Influenced by Aubrey Beardsley’s Art Nouveau style, Kirchner has often been compared to the artist Alphonse Mucha who also primarily painted women. But while Mucha went on to focus on poster art, Kirchner designed postcards during what has been dubbed “The Golden Age of Postcards.” Women in Kirchner designs were usually garbed scantily (though elegantly) and shown sitting at their vanities or lounging on beds. Some are simply smelling flowers or playing an instrument like a harp.

Not much is known about Kirchner’s private life. While in Vienna, he painted portraits for wealthy Viennese clients. He later moved to Paris (around 1900) where he illustrated for the magazine La Vie Parisienne. This popular French magazine famously featured other well-known artists like Georges Barbier and Georges Leonnec. The magazine became infamous for its risqué, yet tasteful illustrations of women. Kirchner’s illustrations for the magazine led to his career designing more than one thousand illustrated postcards featuring mostly women.

Most of Kirchner’s women are based on his wife Nina who modeled for him. Many of Kirchner’s designs demonstrated a strong Japanese influence as best evidenced by his Geisha series of illustrations. While in Paris Kirchner continued to do portrait work and illustrate for other magazines. Kirchner’s illustrations of Paris life became very popular—especially as he portrayed its sensual side in bars and fashionable bedrooms. His depictions of women, while erotic, are also exquisitely lovely. Like Mucha, Kirchner portrayed women as essentially beautiful—sometimes ethereally so.

Kirchner moved to the United States around 1914. His postcards became particularly sought after during WWI by soldiers on both sides of the war. Art historians credit Kirchner’s postcards as revealing the first pin up girls. Soldiers collected Kirchner’s postcard beauties and hung them in the trenches. Kirchner’s war postcards were less draughtsmanlike than his earlier designs and also more directly sensual. These erotic postcards were soldiers’ favorites and their popularity during these war years influenced the work of later pin up artists. While in New York, Kirchner also worked as a theatre costume designer as well as a portrait artist.

Kirchner died in 1917. His wife and main model Nina attempted suicide after his death. Subsequent accounts of her life suggest she went mad with excessive drug use. Kirchner portrayed his wife so often that it would be impossible to ignore their artist and muse-like relationship. His portrayals of Nina suggest enchantment, beauty, and certainly love. Kirchner’s postcards are among the most highly collectable. His rarest designs are extremely valuable and continue to fetch large sums at auction."

Here is a link to ArtHistory.net:

http://www.arthistory.net/artists/raphaelkirchner/raphaelkirchner1.html

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

36.00 USD

Beautiful card by Raphael Kirchner from during the period he spent in Paris.

This card was glued into an album at some point, and whoever removed it left plenty of evidence of this attached to the back side. For this reason, while the card is in otherwise very nice condition, we are listing it at a very low price. Please examine our high res scans carefully for detail.

For more on Kirchner, please read the wonderful summary below, that we found on the website ArtHistory.net. We usually write our own listings, but this is great. Informative, concise, and we certainly couldn't have done it better!



"Introduction to the Artist Raphael Kirchner
By ArtHistory.net



Vienna-born artist Raphael Kirchner was born in 1876. Influenced by Aubrey Beardsley’s Art Nouveau style, Kirchner has often been compared to the artist Alphonse Mucha who also primarily painted women. But while Mucha went on to focus on poster art, Kirchner designed postcards during what has been dubbed “The Golden Age of Postcards.” Women in Kirchner designs were usually garbed scantily (though elegantly) and shown sitting at their vanities or lounging on beds. Some are simply smelling flowers or playing an instrument like a harp.

Not much is known about Kirchner’s private life. While in Vienna, he painted portraits for wealthy Viennese clients. He later moved to Paris (around 1900) where he illustrated for the magazine La Vie Parisienne. This popular French magazine famously featured other well-known artists like Georges Barbier and Georges Leonnec. The magazine became infamous for its risqué, yet tasteful illustrations of women. Kirchner’s illustrations for the magazine led to his career designing more than one thousand illustrated postcards featuring mostly women.

Most of Kirchner’s women are based on his wife Nina who modeled for him. Many of Kirchner’s designs demonstrated a strong Japanese influence as best evidenced by his Geisha series of illustrations. While in Paris Kirchner continued to do portrait work and illustrate for other magazines. Kirchner’s illustrations of Paris life became very popular—especially as he portrayed its sensual side in bars and fashionable bedrooms. His depictions of women, while erotic, are also exquisitely lovely. Like Mucha, Kirchner portrayed women as essentially beautiful—sometimes ethereally so.

Kirchner moved to the United States around 1914. His postcards became particularly sought after during WWI by soldiers on both sides of the war. Art historians credit Kirchner’s postcards as revealing the first pin up girls. Soldiers collected Kirchner’s postcard beauties and hung them in the trenches. Kirchner’s war postcards were less draughtsmanlike than his earlier designs and also more directly sensual. These erotic postcards were soldiers’ favorites and their popularity during these war years influenced the work of later pin up artists. While in New York, Kirchner also worked as a theatre costume designer as well as a portrait artist.

Kirchner died in 1917. His wife and main model Nina attempted suicide after his death. Subsequent accounts of her life suggest she went mad with excessive drug use. Kirchner portrayed his wife so often that it would be impossible to ignore their artist and muse-like relationship. His portrayals of Nina suggest enchantment, beauty, and certainly love. Kirchner’s postcards are among the most highly collectable. His rarest designs are extremely valuable and continue to fetch large sums at auction."

Here is a link to ArtHistory.net:

http://www.arthistory.net/artists/raphaelkirchner/raphaelkirchner1.html

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

36.00 USD

Beautiful card by Raphael Kirchner from during the period he spent in Paris.

This card was glued into an album at some point, and whoever removed it left plenty of evidence of this attached to the back side. For this reason, while the card is in otherwise very nice condition, we are listing it at a very low price. Please examine our high res scans carefully for detail.

For more on Kirchner, please read the wonderful summary below, that we found on the website ArtHistory.net. We usually write our own listings, but this is great. Informative, concise, and we certainly couldn't have done it better!



"Introduction to the Artist Raphael Kirchner
By ArtHistory.net



Vienna-born artist Raphael Kirchner was born in 1876. Influenced by Aubrey Beardsley’s Art Nouveau style, Kirchner has often been compared to the artist Alphonse Mucha who also primarily painted women. But while Mucha went on to focus on poster art, Kirchner designed postcards during what has been dubbed “The Golden Age of Postcards.” Women in Kirchner designs were usually garbed scantily (though elegantly) and shown sitting at their vanities or lounging on beds. Some are simply smelling flowers or playing an instrument like a harp.

Not much is known about Kirchner’s private life. While in Vienna, he painted portraits for wealthy Viennese clients. He later moved to Paris (around 1900) where he illustrated for the magazine La Vie Parisienne. This popular French magazine famously featured other well-known artists like Georges Barbier and Georges Leonnec. The magazine became infamous for its risqué, yet tasteful illustrations of women. Kirchner’s illustrations for the magazine led to his career designing more than one thousand illustrated postcards featuring mostly women.

Most of Kirchner’s women are based on his wife Nina who modeled for him. Many of Kirchner’s designs demonstrated a strong Japanese influence as best evidenced by his Geisha series of illustrations. While in Paris Kirchner continued to do portrait work and illustrate for other magazines. Kirchner’s illustrations of Paris life became very popular—especially as he portrayed its sensual side in bars and fashionable bedrooms. His depictions of women, while erotic, are also exquisitely lovely. Like Mucha, Kirchner portrayed women as essentially beautiful—sometimes ethereally so.

Kirchner moved to the United States around 1914. His postcards became particularly sought after during WWI by soldiers on both sides of the war. Art historians credit Kirchner’s postcards as revealing the first pin up girls. Soldiers collected Kirchner’s postcard beauties and hung them in the trenches. Kirchner’s war postcards were less draughtsmanlike than his earlier designs and also more directly sensual. These erotic postcards were soldiers’ favorites and their popularity during these war years influenced the work of later pin up artists. While in New York, Kirchner also worked as a theatre costume designer as well as a portrait artist.

Kirchner died in 1917. His wife and main model Nina attempted suicide after his death. Subsequent accounts of her life suggest she went mad with excessive drug use. Kirchner portrayed his wife so often that it would be impossible to ignore their artist and muse-like relationship. His portrayals of Nina suggest enchantment, beauty, and certainly love. Kirchner’s postcards are among the most highly collectable. His rarest designs are extremely valuable and continue to fetch large sums at auction."

Here is a link to ArtHistory.net:

http://www.arthistory.net/artists/raphaelkirchner/raphaelkirchner1.html

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

16.00 USD

Who is "La Belle Waléry?" 'tis a mystery! We've seen other images of this beautiful stage performer, but can't find out anything about her. She certainly has the appearance of a Spanish dancer, but who knows! Of course, the name throws us. Was she related to the famous photographer Stanisław Julian Ignacy, Count Ostroróg (1863-1935) who used the name Waléry as a pseudonym (among others) in his work, just as his father did before him? If you have any history on her, please share!

In any case, a lovely card, circa 1900 Paris. Very nice unposted condition. Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

16.00 USD

Who is "La Belle Waléry?" 'tis a mystery! We've seen other images of this beautiful stage performer, but can't find out anything about her. She certainly has the appearance of a Spanish dancer, but who knows! Of course, the name throws us. Was she related to the famous photographer Stanisław Julian Ignacy, Count Ostroróg (1863-1935) who used the name Waléry as a pseudonym (among others) in his work, just as his father did before him? If you have any history on her, please share!

In any case, a lovely card, circa 1900 Paris. Very nice unposted condition. Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

17.00 USD

‎Così appassionato! :)

Tito Corbella (1885-1966) has to be one of our favorite Italian illustrators of glamor and couples romance postcards. One reason for this, is that he designed a large number of cards after famous Italian silent screen actresses, like Pina Menichelli, Francesca Bertini and Lyda Borelli, and if you visit our shop often, you know how fond we are of these ladies.

According to the folks at European Filmstar Postcards, he often used his wife as a model. For more history on this wonderful artist and several fine examples of his work, follow the link below to their website. It is a site we visit often when researching our cards.

http://filmstarpostcards.blogspot.com/2013/07/painted-by-tito-corbella.html

Note the lovely decoration on the back of this card!
Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

16.00 USD

What eyes you have! :) And such a charming pageboy cut! Miss Livingston (1895-1984) was practically the most fatale of all the silent femmes (most respectful apologies to Miss Bara:), though unlike Theda Bara, she didn't find herself typecast, and also managed a successful transition to the talkies. Still, after marrying the very successful bandleader Paul Whiteman in the early 30's, she retired from film work. If you've never seen her play the part of the city woman in Murnau's "Sunrise," please do. She destroys the poor man in a most devastating way. The film is so heartbreaking, it almost stops being entertainment, but it certainly does Murnau (maker of "Nosferatu"), and all involved, considerable credit. Thanks to Wikipedia!

Postage is for first class shipping in a secure photo mailer, and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will refund the postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of sudden increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

33.00 USD

Wonderful! It is not often we are lucky enough to get in a classic "French Postcard" in such near immaculate condition!

Of course, most of the cards we sell on Red Poulaine happen to be, in fact, French postcards, in that they were actually published in France, but the term "French Postcard" was also one often used to euphemistically describe the very popular nude, and risque, postcards of the time, whether they were published in France, or elsewhere, hence our quotation marks.

In fact, these cards were quite probably responsible, in large part, for the popular notion that France was particularly libertine in its attitudes, a notion brought back to the U.S.A.(along with thousands of these cards), by young American soldiers who fought in France during WWI.

This idea stayed with us for generations, and is very evident in our entertainment, and advertising. A great example of this would be the song, "Wake Up Little Susie," a number one hit, recorded by the Everly Brothers back in the late 1950s, and kept popular for decades by later recording artists like Simon and Garfunkel and the Grateful Dead. In that song, a young man asks his girlfriend how they will overcome the damage to their reputations after having fallen asleep (apparently for several hours), at the drive-in theater, during a particularly boring movie. He asks her, "What'll we tell our friends when they say ""Ooh la-la,"" Wake up little Susie..."
And to this day, the phrase, "Ooh la-la," accompanied by a raising of the eyebrows, suggests...well....it's suggestive. :)

However, we should also mention here (for the sake of etymological accuracy) , that in France, the phrase is actually "Oh la-la," not "Ooh," and that it is an exclamation of upset, or consternation, and not in the least bit risque!

Incidentally, this song was banned in Boston, and elsewhere, during the height of its popularity, when, even though (according to the story the lyrics tell), the two youngsters had not actually done anything but fall asleep in a car, authorities found its content too objectionable for the airwaves. Thanks for that little gem, Wikipedia!

Extremely minor wear to corners, almost unnoticeable. No apparent wear otherwise. The model is one of our favorites from the period. We are given to understand that her name was Brianna, but we have that from one website only, and we've not been able to gather any more history, although we have seen her clothed, on some of the more ordinary "glamor" cards of the 1920s. Some of her earliest nude images appear to date back to the 1910s. The name Mireille, is also printed on the backside of one of her cards, out of a series of risque cards picturing a number of different models, with each of them given different names on the back, so for the time being, we think we'll settle on Mireille. Although there is nothing particularly inventive about this pose, the sheer covering is draped in a wonderfully artful waterfall.
Please examine our high res scans for detail.

Postage is for first class shipping in a secure photo mailer, and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will refund the postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of sudden increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

24.00 USD

From Pre-Raphaelite imagery in the mid 1800s, to Boho-chic through its various iterations into this present day, the "Gypsy" look will, perhaps, always be with us! But beyond the look, Romani music and dance is a vital and emotional performance genre that also continues to maintain its popularity.

Here we have an exquisite RPPC portrait of Genevieve Pages in Gypsy garb, with a brief dedication on the reverse side. Apparently she went by "Gene," probably like the French "Jeanne" with the G pronounced in that soft J sound we use so rarely in English.
Image taken at the Bras studio in Montpellier. Wonderful detail. Hand-painted tambourine :)


To hear some beautiful Romani music, and see some great dancing, follow the link to the Youtube clip below, from the 1997 film Gadjo Dilo (Crazy Outsider). So charming :) This is one of our absolutely favoritest movies! The awesome Adrian Simionescu is the vocalist, and the dancer, actress Rona Hartner is, of course, wonderful as always.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MxP0B1w_4w

Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully insured, first class, shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will refund the postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

22.00 USD

I don't know if any of our visitors who drop by and read this were ever involved in community theater...our kids were, and sometimes there were highly talented costumers creating wonders for the plays they performed in, but never anything quite this fine. The effect, the hair, the cloth for the individual costumes, the metal work, but even more really, the feeling that everything is just as it should be...wow! Unfortunately, we really have no way of dating this card, though it feels like the twenties to us, but it could be a bit older, or more likely, newer...maybe the 30s? Anyway, a wonderful collection of costumed young people, and what feels to us like a fine piece of reference material for a costumer, no?.
There is a tiny spot of blue ink, and another of brown, otherwise a very very nice card.
Please examine our high res scans for detail.

Postage is for first class shipping in a secure photo mailer, and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will refund the postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of sudden increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

12.00 USD

Dorothea Baird (1875-1933), was a very popular British stage actress who also appeared in a number of early silent films. She did some screenwriting, and directing too, and was an important advocate for charitable causes. In particular, she was responsible for raising public awareness of the plight of mothers and infants living in poverty, and the necessity of improving pre-natal and post-natal health practices.

In this gorgeous image, we see Miss Baird in the role of Iolanthe, in the play "King René's Daughter." This is a classic romance, very loosely based on the life of a 15th century princess, "Yolande" of Lorraine. Our image shows the beautiful (incidentally blind from birth), Princess Iolanthe in her cloistered garden.There is no relation between our Iolanthe, and the Iolanthe of the perhaps better known Gilbert and Sullivan musical, by the way.

If you would like to get a sense of the story, you might follow the below link to a 1913 silent film version, starring the beautiful and talented Maude Fealy, available in its entirety at Thanhouser.org. Really lovely stuff, and a very informative and generous website offering free views of over 50 wonderful silent movies!!

Make some popcorn and settle in for a real treat :)

http://www.thanhouser.org/tcocd/Filmography_files/ind1nklcx.htm

A very nice, unposted card.
Please examine our high res scans for detail.

Postage is for first class shipping in a secure photo mailer, and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will refund the postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of sudden increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

16.00 USD

Great image! Horizontal line high up on face of card is our naughty scanner acting up. Sorry.
No publisher, photographer, or artiste attribution. Might be an RPPC? Note the name Loredana handwritten on the reverse. No searches there bore any fruit either, so a nice mystery card in nice unposted condition, with minor wear to edges and corners.

Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

14.00 USD

Lovely couples romance card by Sol, circa 1920s. Nice unposted condition, with writing, in a nice hand, on the reverse. Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

14.00 USD

Wonderful 1920s couples romance with horse by Alfred Noyer.
Did we go a little too far with eggplant? :) But hey, there just aren't many shades of purple beginning with the letter E.
Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

14.00 USD

This beautiful gal often appeared in risque French postcard images photographed by J. Mandel and published by Alfred Noyer. Very nice monochrome glamor card by P-C Paris.
Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully-insured, first class shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will not charge for postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

16.00 USD

Here at Red Poulaine, we have a special place in our hearts for the Italian actress images of the early 1900s and into the 1920s. The quality of the portrait photography and subsequent postcard publication was particularly rich, with a flair for the dramatic and mysterious. Many of our favorites, like Anna Fougez and Nella Regini, began their careers as sciantose, a variation on the French term chanteuse, meaning female singer, but bringing to it other meanings, and implying a dark, mysterious, exotic quality that appealed to the theater going public at the time, and certainly appeals to us :) Naturally we love all of our images or we probably wouldn't purchase them for our shop, and feel an almost filial affection for the performers onto whom we project imagined personalities and traits (is that weird? :), but there is something about what seems to have been at the time a very Italian penchant for carrying the illusion of the stage and screen out into the public venue, a tendency to make even larger, the already "larger than life" persona of the theatrical personality, that we really love. So we have decided to open a new section devoted exclusively to these Italian artistes. We call it "La Bella Donna," and yes it is a bit of a play on words, given the tendency in many of these cards to focus on qualities of a "femme Fatale" type. We hope you will enjoy these images as much as we do.

In the late 1910s and 20s, Andreina Rossi performed on both the stage and screen. We have come across many wonderful images of her, but not a lot of history. Magnificent image by Vettori of Bologna, circa 1920s.
Please examine our high res scans for detail.

Postage is for first class shipping in a secure photo mailer, and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will refund the postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of sudden increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

18.00 USD

Wonderful. She's not exactly unidentified, because her name is written on the back of the card as playing the role of Brünnhilde in the last of Wagner's Ring Cycle operas, Götterdämmerung. It's just that try as we might, with multiple variant spellings, we can't turn her up. What a moving expression! We're hoping some fan of German Opera of the Jugendstil Epoche will recognize her and clue us in. A lovely card in nice, unposted condition. Some edge and corner wear.
Please examine our high res scans for detail.

Postage is for first class shipping in a secure photo mailer, and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will refund the postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of sudden increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

24.00 USD

Born Margaret Morgan, in New York, circa 1885, Margaret Fehim Pasha, by the age of 22, had attained what was perhaps the secret dream of many a young girl of that era, and was traveling the world as a circus bareback rider.

As the story appeared in the Pittsburgh Press, in May of 1906, Miss Morgan had, only two months before, been traveling with the circus ( like a proper young lady, accompanied by her parents) in the vicinity of Constantinople (what is today Istanbul).

A royal personage, a pasha, in elegant costume, and with an impressive entourage, reserved a special box from which he could enjoy her performance night after night. Eventually, he made advances to her by messenger which she refused. Then, he approached her parents with a proposal of marriage (all very proper).

Apparently believing his declarations of love to be sincere, she accepted, and in early 1906, amidst due pomp and ceremony, and by the rites of Islam, the two were married in his fabulous palace.

Whirlwind romance? Oh, yes indeed. But there were a few lumps congealing in the pudding of ecstasy. In the first place, Miss Morgan may have been unaware that Fehim Pasha, a close relative and trusted adviser to Abdul, sultan of all the Turkoman Empire, was also the dreaded chief of the secret police to whom countless tortures, murders, rapes and robberies had been attributed.

Secondly, he had apparently introduced himself as a bachelor, when in fact he was already married...to two wives!

So, despite the fact that, according to the article, Margaret Fehim Pasha was surrounded by every luxury, with 200 slaves who fed her delicacies, perfumed her, bathed her, dressed her, etc., all was not bliss.

And, apparently it was not long after their marriage that the Sultan became aware of the fact that the Princess Fehim Pasha was not of the faith! He considered the marriage an offence to Islam, a scandal, and insisted his nephew give up his new wife.

Shortly thereafter, while Fehim Pasha sat by, idly smoking a cigarette, Miss Margaret was arrested and thrown into prison, where she langushed for a couple of days before being tossed across the border into Bulgaria, completely destitute, and had to beg rides for 400 miles before reuniting with Mom and Dad.

If this story sounds like the basis for the plots of about a hundred silent films of the period, well...it probably was! And how did the story end for our unhappy couple?

Margaret Fehim Pasha (spelled Margarethe Fehim Pascha on this German card) received a settlement of 5000 dollars from her ex-husband, resumed her act in the circus at an increase in salary of 500 percent, and was internationally famous overnight.

It was only a few years later, that as a result of the constant scandals reflecting on the sultan's court, caused by Fehim Pasha's undisguised corruption, crimes and acts of cruelty, that he was banished from Constantinople to a distant protectorate, and when he continued with the same behavior he'd engaged in while under his uncle's protection, he went too far one day, and was beaten to death by an enraged mob.

So, although her experience was undoubtedly terrifying and humiliating for the adventurous young lady, she was very fortunate that the marriage ended when it did, and without her coming to any serious harm.

We're presently hunting for further information on the life of this circus performer. At the time this photo was taken, WWI was already looming on the horizon, and that great conflagration was so destructive to so many lives that people in the headlines shortly before it broke out, were often untraceable by its end.

A beautiful portrait, with just the right amount of silvering to lend it a little magic, and recalling a very colorful footnote in circus history! Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully insured, first class, shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will refund the postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!

22.00 USD

Fashion historians please take note! Our model in this wonderful French RPPC created what was then a VERY unusual costume. Transparent in parts, and appearing waterproof, we are thinking it was probably constructed (at least in part) of cellophane. When it comes to fabrics/materials having those qualities, the choices at that time were very limited. Cellophane, a portmanteau of the words cellulose and diaphane (as in diaphanous), was stumbled upon by a Swiss chemist named Jacques Brandenberger, who in 1900, was attempting to create a water repellant cloth. When he sprayed viscose onto a fabric in an experiment, the result was less than desirable, but when the viscose separated easily from the fabric, the transparent film gave him the idea. He softened it with glycerine, and voila! Cellophane was born (We say "voila," but in fact the refinement of the idea into practical form took about ten years). Still, in 1912, cellophane was in production in France, and was being used to wrap up all sorts of things, like candies, and...and...flappers! Thanks as always Wikipedia!

Well, perhaps there was rain in the weather forecast and she was hedging her bets, but maybe she'll meet a certain someone, and it won't matter if the rain pitter-patters! Let Fred and Ginger show you how that works sometimes :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83wO3RcxGCc

A rare, possibly a "one of a kind" image. Such fun! Please examine our high res scans for detail.

The item you are considering for purchase is, unless otherwise noted, a vintage postcard of approximately 5 and 1/2, by 3 and 1/2 inches. Postage is for fully insured, first class, shipping in a secure photo mailer (to avoid any damage to your purchase in the mails), and we happily combine shipping on all paper goods. If you purchase two cards, we will refund the postage on the second card, and when you purchase three or more cards from us at the same time, your shipping will be entirely free, except for international orders which, because of increases in international shipping rates will still be charged one card's shipping fees on orders of three or more. We do not charge for insurance or shipping materials, and as of the date of this listing are still charging below our overall cost on shipping.

And please come visit our blog at:

redpoulaine.blogspot.com

where we post biographical and historical tidbits, images of cards and photographs for sale, some already sold but remembered fondly, related images of historical interest and sometimes even images of items that have not yet arrived in the shop, but that are expected to arrive soon, as well as coupon codes, links to other related sites, and more!