17.00 USD

Elise De Vere (born Constance), was one of the premiere stars of her time. Born in Belgium, she was the daughter of Herbert Shakespeare Gardiner Williams (aka Charles De Vere) and Julia Ferrett, his wife. Both of them were ex-pat British stage magicians, who wandered the world, when not running magic shops! Though they spent years away, she and her family maintained their "British-ness," and never gave up their citizenship. In the Paris of the time (of today, for that matter), there were numerous communities of residents from "away" who maintained close ties to their cultural origins. The Deveres, for example, regularly attended services at a local Anglican church, or so we have been told. The fact is, that a number of big French music halls were owned by English theatrical promoters during this period, some of whom exported English performers to France (early "British invasion" :), just as France exported theirs to England. After all, the channel is not so wide.

A wonderful card for our Marvelous Maenad section. How like a pagan priestess she is :)
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

Beautifully tinted image of Belle Epoque artiste Marthe Derminy.

Image circa 1905. We have not been able to find any biographical info on Mlle. Derminy yet, still looking, but it does appear that later in her life, she made appearances in a number of French musical romance films in the 30s and 40s, though it is possible that this was another Marthe Derminy.

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!

22.00 USD

Lucy Florval, dancing her way into your heart...your book too, if you should so choose! :) This Belle Epoque postcard is of a variety known as a "mignonette." Probably printed in Germany, this is a little jewel of a postcard, that would make a lovely bookmark if kept in a protective, transparent sheath. It is less than two inches wide, and a little over 5 and 1/2 inches in length. Lovely image of Mlle. Florval, by Leopold Reutlinger of Paris, circa 1900. Beautifully hand-colored. This is the fifth time we've offered a card with this image in our shop (though this is the first Florval mignonette we've had). They don't last long. We are also posting an image of a poster of Mlle. Florval, in the same costume, by decorative artist Maurice Biais, The poster is NOT FOR SALE. Only the postcard by Reutlinger is being offered for sale. We thought it was interesting though, that this poster, done in 1901 by Biais, appears to have been drawn from the series of photos by Reutlinger. This hints at how photography, a relatively new art form, was already influencing long established traditions in popular graphic arts. Biais, whose style is not so much to our tastes when compared with masters of Belle Epoque commercial art like Jules Cheret, and Alphonse Mucha, was nevertheless much loved, (This poster is housed in the Biblioteque d'Arsenal), and his work, posters (often seen as heavily influenced by the work of artist Aubrey Beardsley), postcards (hand drawn and colored), wall paper, etc., was much sought after even in 1901, when this poster of Mlle. Florval was made.

When this portrait was made, Mlle. Florval was performing at the Théatre Marigny, a wonderful place, situated in beautiful gardens, at the corner of the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, and Avenue Marigny, in Paris. We include a cropped scan of a postcard image of the Marigny. Not For Sale! At that time, the theater was used for Summer musical events. . Just imagine!

Incidentally, one of the reasons for the popularity of this particular image, and others of Mlle. Florval, has to do with the whole "wasp waist," tight-lacing thing, which places the card into another, highly collectible, sub set.

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!

22.00 USD

We do love Downton Abbey, and so many of those wonderful BBC, Edwardian setting dramas. I mean we REALLY love 'em! (Seen Anzac Girls yet? Great Australian WWI 6 parter!) But I have to say, that after fervently watching decades of the stuff, if there is one little thing that gets kind of old, it is when (at a point in the story nearing the year 1914) one of the "upstairs" or "downstairs" characters slips into the " Woe is me, my way of life is changing, and soon there will be no place for me at the manor, and I'll have to move to London and become a pastry chef," or "Woe is me, soon there will be no one left to answer the ringing of this little silver bell, and I shall have to boil the water for my own tea," monologue. Certainly it was a dramatic cultural shift for that percentage of society whose lives were changed by it, and for each new generation of viewers, it is possibly a fresh idea that offers historical insight, but I guess I'm getting old and crabby :)

Anyway, we have a fantastic image here, of a well to do family and their servants, and wow, what a lot of servants! Of course, already, the skies over Europe darken prophetically. Political and social upheaval are on the horizon! Soon the lives of these good people will be changed unalterably...thrown into chaos! The social barriers will crumble...commoner will wed aristo...and their mingling will produce a new class of people!!! They will dance strangely...the jazz age approaches!!! Nice girls will trim their locks and don cloche hats!!! Anarchy threatens the status quo!!! And did we mention boudoir dolls? How "uncanny valley" can you get???

We had you going, huh :)

In the foreground, on the right, is the little princess (how cute is she!) with her governess, and on the left, the "pretty maids, all in a row," possibly the cook is the woman in the less frilly uniform towards the back, or she may be head of the household staff. Perhaps that is the chauffeur, further back on the left, and in shadow, stand Mother and Father, king and queen of all they survey. It isn't often we come across an image offering such a fine example of this sort of "old world" household. Wonderful stuff.

Note that the card had a stamp fixed to it, but there is no writing on the back, and no apparent cancellation. It was never posted. Why was it never posted? Of course we know why this is....the chauffeur at the back left, is actually no chauffeur at all, but a crazed lunatic who in 1974, accompanied by his wife, a loving, simple, and vulnerable woman, and his odd, psychically sensitive child, accepted the position of caretaker at the old house....he was trying to finish a novel, you see...the deepening shadow of a bitter winter crept across the land, a darkening chill, like an endless night, and...

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!

19.00 USD

Lovely theatrical costume RPPC of a queen and her attendants. RPPCs (Real Photo Post Cards) are postcard images produced from local studio, or even amateur "home," photographer's negatives in extremely limited runs, often for friends or family only. They are, by their very nature, the rarest postcard images of all. Interesting RPPCs are prized by collectors, and also by artists who might make use of such images in their art work, and appreciate that an original print of such an image is often as close to unique as one can practically get.

R. Guilleminot, Bœspflug et Cie, was not a publisher of postcards, or a photography studio, but rather a company, founded in the 1850s, that manufactured photo print paper and plates. They distributed their print stock and plates internationally. "Guerre de 14," was written in what looks like modern ink, by a previous owner of this postcard, a family member perhaps, and though such notations are notoriously unreliable, suggests that this image was made during the First World War (1914-1918), and indeed, by its appearance, this image feels like it was made in the 1910s.

A lovely, unposted card circa 1910s. 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!

14.00 USD

So precious! This card has sustained some damage over the nearly 100 years that have passed since it was printed, but we still had to have it for the shop. Just a wonderful image, but it looks as if some glue used for attaching the card to an album page was spilled onto the image surface. There are a few other nicks and bumps, so please examine the scans closely. We would like you to be happy with your purchase.

André Dirler of St.-Dizier was the photographer, and from the hairstyles of the little girls, we are placing this image in the late teens or early 20s.
We visited his shop address at 12 Avenue de Verdun via the magic of Google, and the business is no longer there, although Dirler Photo Video does business in St. Dizier at another location...no idea if the Dirler who operates it is related to Monsieur André.

The unique thing about this card? It is quite possibly the only one of its kind in existence! Unlike most of our postcards that were commercially published by large companies, this was a studio portrait image printed on postcard stock in a very limited run, probably just for friends and family.

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

Just so charming. Six young ladies in costume for a theatrical production, and beautifully posed for this RPPC (Real Photo Post Card). RPPCs are postcard images produced from local studio, or even amateur "home," photographer's negatives in extremely limited runs, often for friends or family only. They are, by their very nature, the rarest postcard images of all. Interesting RPPCs are prized by collectors, and also by artists who might make use of such images in their art work, and appreciate that an original print of such an image is often as close to unique as one can practically get.

R. Guilleminot, Bœspflug et Cie, was not a publisher of postcards, or a photography studio, but rather a company, founded in the 1850s, that manufactured photo print paper and plates. They distributed their print stock and plates internationally. Nord et Pas de Calais is probably where this image was taken. It is the northernmost of the 27 French regions, and shares a border with Belgium.

A lovely, unposted card circa 1910s. 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!

54.00 USD

as per convos

18.00 USD

Welcome to "Idols of the 1920s," where we hope to provide a special, cozy place for those of you who long to linger among the stars of the early silver screen, the hoofers and songbirds of dear old vaudeville's fading hours, a few divas of the grand opera, and of the operetta too, flappers, flappers, more flappers, and of course, and perhaps especially, those femmes fatales who with one smoldering glance can melt a heart, or break it in two. Have fun!

Lya Mara, 1897-1960, was born Aleksandra Gudowicz to Polish parents. When the family moved to Warsaw at the beginning of WWI, Aleksandra studied stagecraft, soon began dancing professionally, and eventually became a hugely popular star of German silent films. She did not, however, make the transition to the talkies. Her career faded, and when Hitler came to power in '33, she and her husband, director and producer Frederic Zelnik, with whom she had enjoyed great success in earlier years, left Germany for London, where Zelnik continued to direct and produce films.
Thanks Wikipedia for much of our biographical info!

22.00 USD

A woman with gorgeous eyes and an enigmatic smile poses in a beautiful Gypsy costume in this vintage RPPC. We're guessing this card was printed circa 1910s.
What an awesome print! The clarity and detail are superb. The saw-toothed edge on this postcard is something we often see on Italian cards out of the late teens and early 20s, not so much on French cards, but there's no indication of origin.

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!

24.00 USD

While searching for old postcards of girls and their dolls, we found a number of cards like this one, showing images of WWI era soldiers having their picture taken with a doll. If we'd found just the one, it wouldn't have seemed that remarkable, but finding several in a general search definitely piqued our interest.

In this image, three soldiers from different outfits are enjoying a little time away from their duties. Why the doll? Well, on a card we listed previously, there was a communication on the back of the card, in which another "soldier with doll" wrote to his girl back home, saying (in so many words) he hoped it was okay that he'd met someone with the same lovely figure and face to spend time with, haha. Follow below link to see that listing:

https://www.etsy.com/transaction/1091874799

Perhaps this was just a popular tease at the time. We're still researching it, but it certainly makes for an interesting image.

As with so many RPPCs, this card may be the only surviving example of this image. Historically fascinating and true rarity. Very nice unposted condition.

As with so many RPPCs, this card may be the only surviving example of this image. A true rarity. 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!

24.00 USD

While searching for old postcards of girls and their dolls, we found a number of cards like this one, showing images of WWI era soldiers having their picture taken with a doll. If we'd found just the one, it wouldn't have seemed that remarkable, but finding several in a general search definitely piqued our interest.

In this image, three soldiers from different outfits are enjoying a little time away from their duties. Why the doll? Well, on a card we listed previously, there was a communication on the back of the card, in which another soldier with doll wrote to his girl back home, saying he hoped it was okay that he'd met someone with the same lovely figure and face to spend time with, haha. Follow below link to see that listing:

https://www.etsy.com/transaction/1091874799

As with so many RPPCs, this card may be the only surviving example of this image. Historically fascinating and true rarity. 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!

vintage rppc,french rppc,french postcard,vintage postcard,1910s,world war one,soldiers,dolls,humor,military history

19.00 USD

A few weeks ago we went off in search of old postcards with images of little girls and their dolls. Well, we found a number of them and made a few customers happy, but we also found a few somewhat related cards, sort of on the margin of "Girls and their Dolls," like this one!

So very sweet, and yet a little uncanny! We love it! Two little girls, presumably sisters, in matching outfits. One is wearing a rosary and the other wears what appear to be religious medallions.

Now, we are by no means horror movie fanatics, but we do have to ask, would these two little sweeties seem so terribly out of place if they suddenly appeared down at the far end of a long hallway in a spooky old hotel, calling out, "Come play with us...come play with us..." Brrr! :)

Definitely a rare, very possibly a one of a kind, image. Hope you enjoyed it!
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!

9.00 USD

Nice image of Signorina Franca Dominici in a cloche hat. Signorina Dominici was a greatly loved character actress in Italy, but not as often for parts she herself physically acted out on the stage and screen, as for parts she voice acted, as a doppiatrice, playing the roles of English speaking characters, and dubbing them into Italian. She dubbed animated Disney films for distribution in Italy (she was Mother Rabbit in "Robin Hood"), a number of roles in television, and in live action film as well, for example in the role of the mother of the groom in Hitchcock's "Rear Window," a part played by Thelma Ritter, as well as dubbing roles played by Agnes Moorehead, Lillian Gish, and Elsa Lanchester among many others. A very nice unposted card showing minor wear to edges and corners..
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

Did your knees just go weak? Don't be alarmed. Signorina Menichelli has that effect on many people! One of the most beautifully expressive faces of the Italian cinema, Pina Menichelli, radiates dramatic presence. We are particularly fond of her images, and in general love what these Italian photographers, working with these amazing models, were able to achieve!

We also love being able to offer you cards of this beauty, as if you had just stepped off a train in Milan, in 1917, and while waiting for your aunt, who was to meet you at the station but is late in arriving, you stop at a kiosk which sells newspapers, magazines and postcards. This particular image catches your eye, because only last month you admired Pina in one of her films, wearing this oh so modern outfit. As you remember sitting in the dark cinema with your sweetheart, the sights and sounds of the busy railway station disappear.

Now, for a real treat, follow the link below to this Youtube video of a full length Pina Menichelli film, lots of fun, and with subs in English and a nice musical soundtrack, so that you can better remember that wonderful experience! We recommend a bowl of fresh popcorn and a SanPellegrino Limonata sweetened with two tablespoons of sugar!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwUXLo0277E

Traveling through time and space is what we we are all about here at Red Poulaine. Please think of us as your own personal Tardis. :)

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!

18.00 USD

Did your knees just go weak? Don't be alarmed. Signorina Menichelli has that effect on many people! One of the most beautifully expressive faces of the Italian cinema, Pina Menichelli, radiates dramatic presence. We are particularly fond of her images, and in general love what these Italian photographers, working with these amazing models, were able to achieve!

We also love being able to offer you cards of this almost pristine quality, as if you had just stepped off a train in Milan, in 1917, and while waiting for your aunt, who was to meet you at the station but is late in arriving, you stop at a kiosk which sells newspapers, magazines and postcards. This particular image catches your eye, because only last month you admired Pina in one of her films, wearing this oh so modern outfit. As you remember sitting in the dark cinema with your sweetheart, the sights and sounds of the busy railway station disappear.

Now, for a real treat, follow the link below to this Youtube video of a full length Pina Menichelli film, lots of fun, and with subs in English and a nice musical soundtrack, so that you can better remember that wonderful experience! We recommend a bowl of fresh popcorn and a SanPellegrino Limonata sweetened with two tablespoons of sugar!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwUXLo0277E

Traveling through time and space is what we we are all about here at Red Poulaine. Please think of us as your own personal Tardis. :)

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

Did your knees just go weak? Don't be alarmed. Signorina Menichelli has that effect on many people! One of the most beautifully expressive faces of the Italian cinema, Pina Menichelli, radiates dramatic presence. We are particularly fond of her images, and in general love what these Italian photographers, working with these amazing models, were able to achieve!

We also love being able to offer you cards of this almost pristine quality, as if you had just stepped off a train in Milan, in 1917, and while waiting for your aunt, who was to meet you at the station but is late in arriving, you stop at a kiosk which sells newspapers, magazines and postcards. This particular image catches your eye, because only last month you admired Pina in one of her films, wearing this oh so modern outfit. As you remember sitting in the dark cinema with your sweetheart, the sights and sounds of the busy railway station disappear.

Now, for a real treat, follow the link below to this Youtube video of a full length Pina Menichelli film, lots of fun, and with subs in English and a nice musical soundtrack, so that you can better remember that wonderful experience! We recommend a bowl of fresh popcorn and a SanPellegrino Limonata sweetened with two tablespoons of sugar!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwUXLo0277E

Traveling through time and space is what we we are all about here at Red Poulaine. Please think of us as your own personal Tardis. :)

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!

33.00 USD

In terms of the Russian Theater, this magnificent card is an important historical artifact for a number of reasons.

The play, Anatema, was written by Leonid Andreyev, a greatly loved writer, and close friend of Maxim Gorky.

Its story cast Russian Jews in a particularly sympathetic light, which amidst the political turmoil of the time, during which antisemitism was rife, helped pave the way for improved state relations with Russia's Jews, and mold the future of Russia politically.

The play was produced at the Moscow Art Theater, which Constantin Stanislavski (one of the foremost fathers of modern Russian theater) helped to found in 1898.

Actor, Vasily Ivanovich Kachalov, pictured on our card, was one of Stanislavski's most favored students. He made his debut at the Moscow Art Theater in 1900, playing the part of Tsar Berendey in Ostorovski's "The Snow Maiden," directed by Stanislavski himself.

Stanislavski's wife, Maria Lilina, who played the part of the Snow Maiden, fell in love with Kachalov during the play's production, and reportedly had an affair with him. Nine years later, however, Kachalov was still performing at the Moscow Art Theater, and Maria Lilina remained Stanislavski's lifelong companion, so apparently everything worked out for the three in the long run.

Finally, we are including as one of our listing images (though obviously not for sale) a drawing by Kazimir Severinovich Malevich, the famous avant-garde painter, who rather clearly, worked from this very image when composing his portrait of Kachalov.

Very nice, unposted condition on this 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 occasionally 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

Fantastic RPPC from (we're guessing) the 1920s, of a chorus line of young ladies in what could be toy soldier costumes. Lots of fun! They look awfully polished for an amateur production, but not quite polished enough for a professional one, don't you think? Nevertheless, this undoubtedly rare, and quite possibly one of a kind image, no doubt represented a very important memory in the hearts of more than one of these girls.

The upper left corner of this card shows some visible damage. The other three show some wear, all within the frame and outside the image. Otherwise a great vintage RPPC!
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!

18.00 USD

Lovely Lorelei image! Beautifully hand-tinted. Pure fantasy, and yes, we love it :)

Many people familiar with the name might think of Lorelei as just another name for a Siren of the kind Ulysses braved at sea, but Lorelei's story is actually specific to one geographic location, a huge outcropping of rock (also called Lorelei, or Loreley) on the Rhine river in Germany.

The river is narrow at this spot apparently, and the currents swift, with rocks hidden just beneath the water's surface that present a danger to the keels of ships. Also present is an echo effect, hence the name Loreley, which is said to translate as "Murmuring Rock."

Some text at the base of another Lorelei card we sold not long ago:

"Und singt ein Lied dabei;
Das hat eine wundersame,
Gewaltige Melodei."

(And sings a song, also,
That has a wondrous,
Overpowering melody.)

is from the poem "Lorelei" by Heinrich Heine, a greatly beloved19th century German poet. According to the Wikipedia article, it was Heine's poem, drawn from an earlier work by Clemens Brentano, that immortalized this character, and not, as is widely believed, that her tale comes from old folk legend. Well, that is for the scholars to debate. We're pleased to imagine her just as she is pictured here :)

A wonderful card in very nice unposted condition.
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!