THE CABINET CARD GALLERY

This cabinet card features early theatre actress, Annie Dunscombe. She was certainly a beautiful young woman. Unfortunately, biographical information concerning Miss Dunscombe appears to be sparse, and further research is necessary. Dunscombe is mentioned in Michael Bennett Leavitt’s book, “Fifty Years of Theatrical Management” (1912). Leavitt writes of a theatrical season where many of the young actresses he worked with, were wed. Annie Dunscombe, then, a member of the chorus, married comedian, J. W. Bradbury.  This cabinet card portrait is by celebrated photographer, Marc Gambier (1838-1900). This image captures Miss Dunscombe in costume. Gambier was born and educated in Paris, France. At the age of 19, he came to America for a very short stint of time. He returned to France and became a student of the great painter, Le Creton. Subsequently, he became a student of another great painter, Camino. He then returned to America and for five years, studied and worked under esteemed photographer, Napoleon Sarony. He then launched his own photography business in New York City. He divided his time between his first love, painting, and his business of taking and selling photographs. Gambier was known as a great historical painter. He was a veteran of the French Army and while in the service, he sketched and painted several important battles. Research reveals that Gambier was listed in the 1880 US census. He was forty-one years old and living in New York City with his family. He is listed as living with his wife Emilie (age 28), daughters Louise (age 10) and Emilie (age 7), and son M. L. (age 2). Also in the residence was a young woman (age 25) who worked as a servant. Gambier was known for the many theatrical photographs he produced as well as for selling postage stamp sized portrait photographs, that people attached to their letters and postcards. This cabinet card has an extremely minor curl and is in veriy good condition (see scans). Annie Dunscombe portraits are uncommon.

This cabinet card is available for purchase at The History Peddler for $40.00 or Best Offer.   

Interested collectors may view the listing here:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/336245539368

This vintage real photo postcard captures two very adorable and beautifully dressed little girls. They have magnificent smiles and sparkling eyes. This postcard was produced by PC Parisas part of a series (No.1510). The P.C logo is an abbreviation for Papeteries d Levallois-Clichy. The firm published a variety of real photo postcard topics including portraits of pretty models, nudes, views, and holiday cards. The company was active in the 1920’s. SOLD

The postcard features a photograph of actress Ethel Erskine in a scene from the play “Quaker Song,” performed in Leeds, England. The image captures Erskine alongside her fellow cast members, each embodying their respective characters with period-appropriate attire and expressive demeanors. The photograph was taken by J. Garratt, a photographer who operated a studio in Leeds.​ Ethel Erskine was a prominent actress in the early 20th century, known for her performances in various theatrical productions. One notable role was Ilona in the operetta “Gipsy Love,” which played at venues such as the Carltheater in Vienna (1910), the Globe Theatre on Broadway (1911), and Daly’s Theatre in London (1912). Despite her evident talent and presence on stage, detailed records of her personal life and broader career remain limited. This scarcity of information adds an element of intrigue to her legacy. Specific details about the play “Quaker Song” are scarce, suggesting it may have been a lesser-known or perhaps a localized production during its time. Erskine is positioned prominently in this postcard photograph. She exudes poise and confidence. She is dressed in attire reflecting the Quaker aesthetic—simple yet elegant, with modest designs and muted colors. Her expression is serene, capturing the essence of her character’s introspective and gentle nature.​ The accompanying actors are arranged thoughtfully around Erskine, each contributing to the scene’s narrative. They are similarly dressed in period costumes that reflect the Quaker ethos, characterized by plain fabrics and unadorned styles. Their expressions range from contemplative to earnest, suggesting a moment of communal decision or reflection within the play.​ The photograph is credited to J. Garratt, who operated a photography studio in Leeds.  SOLD