This rare risque real photo postcard captures a staged and playful tableau likely from the 1920s or 1930s. The photograph features a woman in a provocative pose, standing against a backdrop with decorative elements. Her attire is minimal—she wears a halter-style garment fashioned from a patterned scarf or similar material, leaving her torso exposed. She also dons stockings secured with garters, along with a string of pearls that adds a touch of elegance to her otherwise suggestive presentation. Her curly hairstyle is typical of the early 20th century. The woman holds a tray containing a striped tea set, consisting of a teapot, cups, and saucers, which she presents as if serving tea. On the small table to her left, there is a whimsical figurine, perhaps a pierrot or clown. This object adds a playful and slightly surreal touch to the scene. The art on the wall behind her appears to be a fabric panel with a floral design, adding a domestic and slightly bohemian atmosphere to the setting. The woman’s facial expression is subtle, with a faint smile that exudes confidence and a hint of amusement. Her pose, along with the setting, suggests that this postcard was intended as a risqué but artistic depiction, typical of many such images produced for collectors or admirers of “boudoir” photography during this era. The publisher of this postcard is unidentified, other than the initials “NP”. Preliminary research did not reveal the actual name of the publishing company. SOLD
This carte de visite portrait features a well-dressed and distinguished looking gentleman posing for his portrait at the Crosby studio in Lewiston, Maine. He has piercing eyes and a wiry beard and mustache. The photographer of this image is A B Crosby (1836-1879). Crosby worked alone during his career but he was also involved in two partnerships. He had a brief partnership with George W Barnes in Topsham, Maine. He also was in business in Lewiston with C W Curtis. Both of these business relationships occurred in the 1870’s. The earliest record I could find of Crosby working as a photographer was in an 1864 Lewiston business directory. Crosby’s life was cut short when he succumbed to brain disease at the age of 43. He was married at the time of his death. I have seen a number of Crosby’s photographs and it is clear that he was a talented lensman. SOLD
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 