This is a real photo postcard featuring Miss Doris Stocker (1886–1968), a celebrated Edwardian musical comedy actress and singer. The postcard was published by Davidson Brothers of London (Series 2263) and photographed by the well-regarded studio of Bassano. Stocker is pictured in an elegant feathered hat and ruffled costume, her expression refined and engaging, which perfectly reflects her reputation as one of the most charming stars of the Edwardian stage. On the reverse, the card carries a handwritten note. The text, though incomplete, reads: “My Dear Alice, just a few lines to you hoping you are fairly quite well, what do you think about that idea about that box? I think it would be alright. we should…”The remainder trails off. Doris Stocker was born in Bombay, British India in 1886 and moved with her family to London in the 1890s. She became a chorus girl under George Edwardes at the famous Gaiety Theatre before moving into starring roles in West End musical comedies. Among her best-known performances were in The Cingalee (1904), A Waltz Dream (1911), Theodore & Co. (1912), and To-Night’s the Night (Shubert Theatre, New York, 1914). In 1917, she married Sir Henry Segrave, who later became famous for breaking world land and water speed records. Doris retired from the stage after her marriage and lived a quieter life, though she remained a figure of public interest, particularly following Sir Henry’s tragic death in 1930. He died in a racing boat accident while setting a racing boat speed record of nearly 99 miles per hour. She passed away in London in 1968. The postcard is in excellent condition for its age. The photographic image is clear with strong contrast. The reverse shows a neat handwritten message (see scans).
This vintage Postcard is available for purchase at my store, The History Peddler, for $14.95 or best offer.
Interested collectors may view the listing here:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/236274187182
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 
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