This vintage real photo postcard features Irish actress, singer, and dancer, Alice Russon. She acted in musical comedies and silent films. Russon’s stage work included “The Girl from Kay’s” (1904), “Cinderella” (1907), and “The Arcadians” (1911). In 1906, she appeared in a variety show headlined by Will Rogers. In 1912 and 1913, she performed in Australia. According to IMDb, Russon appeared in three British silent films including “Democracy” (1918) and “All Men are Liars” (1919). Russon was married to actor, Vernon Davidson. It is reported that she was an amateur photographer. This postcard, depicting Miss Russon, was issued by Rotary Photo, E.C., and bears the serial number 1803R. Rotary Photo was one of the most prominent British publishers of actress and theatrical postcards in the early 20th century. The image features Russon seated and leaning on a rustic brick structure and holding a bundled broom, suggestive of a stage role or symbolic costume rather than everyday dress. She wears a soft, flowing costume with layered fabric and a loosely draped head covering. Her long, wavy hair falls freely over her shoulders, reinforcing the youthful and idealized presentation common to Edwardian stage portraiture. Her relaxed posture and direct, gentle gaze give the image an intimate, informal quality that contrasts with more rigid studio portraits of the period. The photograph is credited to Sidney & Wood. The postcard has been postally used and is postmarked 1907. The postcard reads “Just a postcard to wish you many happy returns of the day and many of them”, The card is signed “Lily”. The postcard is in good antique condition. The photographic image remains strong, with good tonal depth and clarity. There is minor corner wear, and some small marks consistent with age and postal handling. The reverse shows normal handling wear, light toning, and writing from postal use, along with a clearly visible stamp and postmark. No creases or tears are present (see scans).
This real photo postcard is available for purchase at my store, The History Peddler, for $18.00 or best offer.
Interested collectors may view the listing here:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/336405573484
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 
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