POSTCARD 1
POSTCARD 2 (SOLD)
These vintage real photo postcards (RPPC) feature the actress Miss Florence Lloyd. Postcard 1 features Miss Lloyd elegantly posed in a full-length studio portrait. The photograph was taken by Dover Street Studios and published by Rotary Photo, one of the leading postcard publishers of the Edwardian era. The card is part of the Rotary Photographic Series and is numbered 1719 F. Florence Lloyd is shown in a lavish gown decorated with beaded embellishments, floral embroidery, and flowing panels of satin and chiffon. Her elaborate dress is paired with a sparkling jeweled choker and necklace, giving her the refined look of an Edwardian stage star. Her dark hair is styled in the fashionable upswept manner of the period, adding to her striking appearance. What makes this portrait especially fascinating is her unexpected pose: Lloyd holds a cigarette delicately in her right hand while exhaling smoke rings that are faintly visible in the studio air. At the time this postcard was produced (circa 1905–1910), public smoking by women was still considered improper and even scandalous in polite society. Smoking was associated with rebellion and the changing roles of women in modern life, and it did not become broadly acceptable for women to smoke in public until the 1920s and 1930s, as social norms shifted during and after World War I. This photograph captures not just an actress, but a provocative image challenging Edwardian conventions. Her expression is one of poise and slight detachment, with her gaze turned upward as if lost in thought. The combination of elegance, theatricality, and a hint of defiance makes this an unusually compelling postcard. Lloyd was English and the daughter of actor Samuel Lloyd. She often acted as a boy impersonator. In 1905 she acted in New Zealand as part of a theatrical tour. Lloyd was a Gaiety Girl for George Edwardes & Co. in 1894. The reverse of this postcard reveals that it is a divided back card. This postcard is in very good condition for its age. There is only light corner and edge wear with no creases or tears. The photographic clarity remains sharp, with strong tones and detail (see scans).
Postcard 2 is a striking Edwardian-era Rotary Photographic Series real photo postcard (RPPC) featuring Miss Florence Lloyd elegantly posed, holding a bouquet of flowers in one hand, with her other resting gracefully. Her gaze is poised yet enigmatic, her dark eyes conveying a quiet confidence and charm. She is dressed in a sumptuous dark gown with lace-trimmed sleeves and a square neckline, which hints at late Victorian influences transitioning into Edwardian fashion. The gown’s sheer, puffed sleeves add an element of romance and drama. She wears a delicate, simple necklace, complementing her refined look. Her wide-brimmed hat is adorned with dark feathers, a popular Edwardian fashion statement emphasizing sophistication and status. Her wavy dark hair peeks out from beneath, framing her face beautifully. Her lips are subtly parted, adding to the sense of mystery and allure. She appears graceful and self assured. This postcard was produced by Rotary Photo E.C., a well-known publisher specializing in high-quality photographic postcards of stage performers and celebrities during the early 20th century. The series number is 1719 B, indicating that this is part of a larger set featuring theatrical personalities. The postcard was mailed from Ilfracombe, England, in 1905, as evidenced by the postmark. A green half-penny King Edward VII stamp affixed to the upper right corner reflects the standard postage rate of the time for inland mail. The handwritten message reads: “Very wet this afternoon. Going to tea with Mrs. Goodwyn. Hope your cold is better. Love to all. M.G.T.” This personal message gives a glimpse into everyday Edwardian life—where the weather, social visits, and well-wishing were common topics of correspondence.
This vintage Postcard 1 is available for purchase at my store, The History Peddler, for $14.00 or best offer.
Interested collectors may view the listing here:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/236387956086
POSTCARD 1
POSTCARD 2
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