22.00 USD
Lovely condition on this semi-nude boudoir image. Probably printed in Germany, this image was of a type very popular and after the fashion of many produced by large companies like Amag. (Albrecht and Meister). This one almost definitely dates to between 1906 (when Germany began using the divided back postcard) and 1914 (when the First World War began, shattering the picture postcard industry, a blow from which it never entirely recovered). Our guess is that it was printed circa 1909.
We think we recognize this model from a beautiful series of German "Mignon" images.
You may notice on the obverse of this card, the ink-stamped phrase, "Lichtbild Nr." We believe this means simply, "Photograph Number," and probably indicates that this card was part of a collection of photo image postcards that were to have been numbered and catalogued, though this one, as we can see, never was. Just one of those little postcard mysteries that keep us, here at Red Poulaine, happily guessing.
Incidentally, Lichtbild, according to the German Wikipedia, was the earliest German word for photograph, dating to the 1830s, and translates literally into "light image."
We love how the soft focus works in this image. Plenty of clarity for detail, like the wrinkles in her gorgeous slip, the gathering of her stockings and the embroidery work on the cushion, while, at the same time, blending the model artfully into the trompe l'oeil in the background.
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. If we end up spending less on shipping than you are charged (which sometimes happens with international orders), we will happily refund the difference.
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!