I am hoping that Cabinet Card Gallery visitors are not offended by this tastefully done vintage nude real photo postcard. Postcards of nudes were a popular collectors item during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. They were considered to be artistic and not pornographic, although most photographers and nude models did not allow their names to be printed on the postcards. In addition, some retail outlets (Photo Galleries) for these nude postcards kept them under the counter. Clearly, many of those involved with creating and selling these postcards, had fears of being prosecuted. Buyers of these postcards did not mail them. They were strictly collectibles. There is some disagreement about the women who posed for these photographs. Originally, many believed that the women were either local prostitutes, artist models, or actresses. However, there is a growing belief that most of the models were working women who modeled to supplement their income. This particular nude postcard was published by a French firm known as “P.C. from Paris. The P. C. logo is an abbreviation for Papeteries de Levallois-Clichy. The firm published a variety of real photo postcard topics including portraits of women, nudes, views, and holiday cards. The company was active in the 1920’s. The lovely model seen in this postcard was a popular one. She modeled for many of the firm’s nude postcards. This postcard is part of a series (#1887). She appears to be of Spanish origin and is casting an inviting gaze. She is wearing a “piano shawl”. Normally these shawls are used to decorate the top surface of a grand piano. Piano shawls were also used as an accessory in women’s fashion. SOLD
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 