Davidson Brothers | THE CABINET CARD GALLERY

BEAUTIFUL STAGE ACTRESS DENISE ORME (THREE VINTAGE REAL PHOTO POSTCARDS)

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Postcard 1 features stage actress Miss Denise Orme. She is very attractive and beautifully dressed. She is wearing a fur stole and and fur muffs. She has a lovely hat and wonderful smile. Miss Orme’s given name was Jessie Smither, and was later known as Duchess of Leinster. Denise Orme (1885-1960) was an English music hall singer, actress and musician who was a regular performeer at the Alhambra and Gaiety Theatres in London during the early years of the twentieth century. Her mother was a professor of music. She trained for her theatrical career at the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Music. Her stage debut was in 1906 in the chorus at Daly’s Theatre in London. Later that same year she appeared in the title role of “See See” at the Prince of Wales Theatre. In 1906 she participated in gramophone recordings of Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Mikado”. Her marital history reveals that she had a predilection to choosing husbands that were “rich and famous”. She was married to an English Baron, A Danish millionaire, and an Irish duke. She was the maternal grandmother of Aga Khan IV.who is the current Imam of Nizari Ismailism which is a denomination of of Ismailism within Shia Islam with 15 million adherents. He is also a British business magnate. Miss Orme’s photographic portrait was taken by the Foulsham and Banfield Studio. Foulsham & Banfield were well known celebrity photographers. Frank Foulsham and A. C. Banfield operated a studio in the 1900’s through the 1920’s. The postcard was published by Rotary Photo and is part of the Rotary Photographic Series (#4098 Q). The postcard has a postmark from London, England, and dated 1907. The postmark date reveals that this portrait of Miss Orme was taken at the beginning of her stage career. In the message section of the postcard, the sender asks the receiver, “What do you think of Denise?”. In addition, the sender asserts on the front of the postcard “Nice hat, isn’t it?”. I have to agree; not only is Miss Orme lovely, so is her hat…….

Postcard 2 shows the beautiful and well dressed Miss Orme peeking out from behind a curtain. The photographer is Alexander Bassano (1829-1913) who was a leading royal and high society photographer located in London. This postcard, like the first was published by Rotary Photo and is part of the Rotary Photographic Series (no. 1933 I).

Postcard 3 presents a close-up profile view of this stunningly pretty young actress. Like the first two photo postcards, this one is also published by the Rotary Photo company and is part of the Rotary Photographic Series (no. 4098 M). The photograph was taken by “Play Pictorial” which was an English theatre magazine published in London between 1902 and 1939. The publication provided a pictorial presentation of West End theatrical productions with each issue focusing on just one play. (SOLD)

Postcard 4 presents a close-up profile view of this stunningly pretty young actress. It is published by the Davidson Brothers and is part of the Real Photographic Series (no.1670). The photograph was taken by Alexander Bassano. Bassano (1829 –1913) was a leading royal and high society photographer in Victorian London. (SOLD)

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REVERSE OF FIRST POSTCARD

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REVERSE OF SECOND POSTCARD

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REVERSE OF THIRD POSTCARD

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Published in:

on May 11, 2025 at 12:00 pm Comments (3)
Tags: Alexander Bassano, Alhambra, Bassano, Davidson Brothers, Denise Orme, Duchess of Leinster, Gaiety, Gilbert andSullivan, Play Pictorial, Rotary Photo, Royal Academy of Music, Royal College of Music

GABY DESLYS: BEAUTIFUL AND TALENTED ACTRESS, DANCER AND SINGER

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Vintage real photo Postcard 1 features a portrait of the multi talented actress, dancer, and singer, Gaby Deslys (1881-1920). Miss Deslys performed at the beginning of the twentieth century in both Europe and the United States. She was extremely popular worldwide. In fact, she was able to earn four thousand dollars a week when performing in the United States. She performed several times on Broadway. She had a dance named after her, “The Gaby Glide” (1911). You can find the sheet music, with Gaby on the cover, elsewhere on ebay. Her love life was the topic of much public gossip. She probably added to the sensationalism surrounding her by posing in a number of risque postcards. She was courted by many wealthy and powerful men, including the King of Portugal. Her life was cut short by the “Spanish” influenza. Postcard 1 is not at all common. It was published by E. A. Schwerdtfeger Company of London and printed in Berlin (no. 0291/1). The company also had an office in New York (opened in 1910). This publishing house printed many different types of real photo postcards but was known for its hand-colored real photo postcards of actresses and fashionable women in exotic costumes. The photographer was the Talbot studio. The creator of Miss Deslys’s hat is also credited (Lewis). This particular real photo postcard stands out because it offers a colorized and very clear view of this beautiful and talented performer. SOLD

Postcard 2 was photographed by Edouard Stebbing. He was active in Paris between 1890 and 1910. Stebbing taught at a University in Paris and invented the stebbing camera, and was known for his work with emulsions. It is reported that he was friends with the artist Monet. He died in 1914 and his wife (Celestine) died five years earlier. Stebbing was a prolific photographer during the Belle Epoque Paris. He appears to have been an expatriate from England. He published many articles in British Photographic journals. Stebbing photographed many theatrical stars. A frequent publisher of these postcards was Monsieur G.Piprot, of “Etoille” or “Star” publishing in Paris. The “Photographic Times and American Photographer” (1883) cited Stebbing as “one of the bright lights of the French Photographic Society. The card has a 1908 postmark. SOLD

Postcard 3 is not common. It was published by Rotary Photo of Great Britain as part of a series (no.11843 A). This postcard portrait was taken by the Foulsham & Banfield studio. Gaby Deslys was certainly a beautiful and talented performer. SOLD

Postcard 4 was published by Rapid Photo of Great Britain as part of a series (no.4245). The company was active between 1901 and 1910. The firm specialized in taking theatrical portraits and was located in London. This postcard portrait was taken by the Bassano studio. SOLD

Postcard 5 was published by Raphael Tuck & Sons of Great Britain as part of the Celebrities of the Stage series (no.T745). The company produced a variety of postcards including an extensive catalog of celebrity (stage and screen) portrait postcards. The firm began publishing this Deslys postcard in 1903. Miss Deslys was photographed by Dover Street Studio for the portrait seen on this postcard. (SOLD)

Postcard 6 was published by J. Beagles of Great Britain as part of a series (no.70H). This real photo postcard is uncommon. This risque vintage real photo postcard features Deslys wearing a provocative costume for her time. She is flashing an infectious smile. Note her corset assisted wasp thin waist.

Postcard 7 was published by Societe Industrielle de Photograpie (SIP) of Rueil, France, and is part of a series (no.1537).The photographer was Edouard Stebbing who was active in Paris between 1890 and 1910. Stebbing taught at a University in Paris and invented the stebbing camera, and was known for his work with emulsions. It is reported that he was friends with the artist Monet. He died in 1914 and his wife (Celestine) died five years earlier. Stebbing was a prolific photographer during the Belle Epoque Paris. He appears to have been an expatriate from England. He published many articles in British Photographic journals. Stebbing photographed many theatrical stars. This real photo postcard is uncommon. (SOLD)

Postcard 8 is an uncommon vintage real photo postcard. It was published by Davidson Brothers of Great Britain. Davidson Brothers was located in both London and New York City. The firm operated between 1901 and 1911. (SOLD)

Postcard 9 has a portrait taken by esteemed celebrity photographer, Leopold Reutlinger. This real photo postcard is very uncommon. Gaby Deslys was certainly a beautiful and talented performer. (SOLD)

Postcard 10 is not at all common. It was published by Rotary Photo of Great Britain as part of a series (no.11843 C). This postcard portrait was taken by the Foulsham & Banfield studio. SOLD

PORTRAITS OF LILY ELSIE: BEAUTIFUL AND TALENTED STAGE ACTRESS (VINTAGE RPPC)

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LILY ELSIE : PRETTY STAGE ACTRESS : THE MERRY WIDOW : PORTRAIT : (RPPC) - Picture 1 of 2 POSTCARD 11 (SOLD)

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LILY ELSIE : PRETTY STAGE ACTRESS : PORTRAIT : RPPC 1905 - Picture 1 of 3 POSTCARD 14 (SOLD)

LILY ELSIE : PRETTY STAGE ACTRESS : PORTRAIT : BY RITA MARTIN : UNCOMMON RPPC - Picture 1 of 2

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LILY ELSIE : PRETTY STAGE ACTRESS : PHOTO BY FOULSHAM & BANFIELD : RPPC 1906 - Picture 1 of 3 POSTCARD 21 (SOLD)

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LILY ELSIE: PRETTY STAGE ACTRESS : PLAYING FRANZI IN "A WALTZ DREAM" : RPPC - Picture 1 of 2 POSTCARD 26 (SOLD)

LILY ELSIE: PRETTY STAGE ACTRESS : FUR BOA : ROTARY PHOTO : RPPC 1911 - Picture 1 of 2

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LILY ELSIE : PRETTY STAGE ACTRESS : PROFILE VIEW : FOULSHAM & BANFIELD : RPPC - Picture 1 of 2

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Postcard 1 features celebrated stage actress Miss Lily Elsie (1886-1962). At the time of her portrait sitting for this image, Miss Elsie was also known as “Mrs. Ian Bullugh”. More about that later. Lily Elsie was a very popular English actress and singer. She was most known for her starring role in the London production of “The Merry Widow (1907)”. The show ran for 778 performances. A critic for The Pelican (1907) wrote that “the youthfulness, the dainty charm and grace, the prettiness and the exquisite dancing with which Miss Elsie invests the part…. I share the opinion of most of the first-nighters, who considered it could not have been in better hands, and could not have been better handled…. The night was a genuine triumph for Miss Elsie, and she well deserved all the calls she received”. She began as a child actress and before her big break had appeared in a number of Edwardian musical comedies. She was charming and beautiful and became one of the most photographed actresses of her time. Lily Elsie’s dad was a theater worker and her aunt was well known actress Ada Reeve. Shortly after the turn of the century she joined George Edwardes’ company at the Daly Theater. Some of her early appearances included “A Chinese Honeymoon”, “Lady Madcap”, “The Little Michus (1905)”. In the years between 1900 and 1906 she appeared in 14 shows. After the “Merry Widow” she appeared in 26 more shows including “The Dollar Princess” (1909) and “A Waltz Dream” (1911). She clearly was an actress who was in demand. Men paid her much attention but apparently she did not enjoy the attention. Lucile, her costume designer for “The Merry Widow” stated that Elsie was “absolutely indifferent to men and had once said that she disliked “the male character”. She added that men would only behave well if a woman “treated them coldly”. Now, some words about her marriage. In 1911 she he left the cast of a play in which she was performing to marry Major John Ian Bullough (1885–1936). Major Bullough was the son of a wealthy textile manufacturer. He was formerly married to actress Maude Darrell who only survived one year after their 1909 marriage. The marriage between Elsie and Bullough was reported to be very unhappy. Elsie’s health began to deteriorate and her husband pressured her to quit the stage and she was ready to do so. She returned to the stage during the war years (World War I) and was active in fund raising for the war effort. She next took a ten year break from the stage only to return once again. Her final performance took place in the Daly Theater in the play “The Truth Game” (1929). In addition to her theater career, Elsie made recordings, and appeared in two films, including D. W. Griffith’s “The Great Love” (1918). Also appearing in that film was Lillian Gish. In 1930 Elsie’s marriage ended in divorce. Her health began to deteriorate more and she developed hypochondriasis causing her to spend much time in nursing homes and sanitariums. Due to her psychological problems she had brain surgery. Her final years were spent at St. Andrews hospital in London. This postcard is part of a series (Arcadian no. A 26). The photographer of this image of this beautiful actress is the well known celebrity photographer, Rita Martin. She was considered one of the best British photographers of her time. She opened her studio in 1906. Martin’s sister, Lallie Charles was an esteemed society photographer. Many of Rita’s photographs can be found in the National Portrait Gallery. To view more photographs by Rita Martin in the cabinet card gallery, click on the category “Photographer: Martin”.

The second postcard of Miss Elsie provides a terrific close-up photograph of the beautiful Miss Elsie. She is wearing a dark jacket, a frilly high collared blouse and a ribbon bow tie. Her accessories include a long necklace, a pin low on her blouse, and a corsage. The postcard is part of the Rotary Photographic Series (no. 4159 J) published by Rotary Photo. The photograph was taken by the Foulsham & Banfield Studio. Foulsham & Banfield were well known celebrity photographers. Frank Foulsham and A. C. Banfield operated a studio in the 1900’s through the 1920’s.

The third postcard features Lily Elsie clutching a bouquet of flowers and glancing sideways at the photographer. She looks absolutely beautiful. She is wearing a fancy beaded dress and a bracelet. She stands in front of a window. This photograph, like the second postcard’s photo, was taken by the Foulsham & Banfield studio. The portrait postcard was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (11840 F). The postcard was printed in Britain.

The fourth postcard is a portrait of a smiling Lily Elsie. She is wearing a flower, beads (pearls?), and a hairband. This photograph was taken by the Foulsham & Banfield studio. The portrait postcard was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (11593 B). This postcard captures Miss Elsie in her role as Alice in “The Dollar Princess” (1909). The venue for the play was Daly’s Theater in London and cast members included Joseph Coyne, Gabrielle Ray, Emmy Wehlen, and Gladys Cooper. (SOLD)

Postcard 5 is a portrait postcard of Miss Elsie that provides a terrific close-up photograph of the stage beauty. The postcard is part of the Rotary Photographic Series (no.11841D) published by Rotary Photo. The photograph was taken by the Foulsham & Banfield Studio. Foulsham & Banfield were well known celebrity photographers. Frank Foulsham and A. C. Banfield operated a studio in the 1900’s through the 1920’s. (SOLD)

Postcard 6 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (4484D). The photographer of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. The card was postmarked in 1907. (SOLD)

Postcard 7 is a vintage real photo postcard featuring celebrated stage actress Miss Lily Elsie (1886-1962) in costume for her role in “The Merry Widow” (1907). This postcard was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (4827U). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. The card was postmarked in 1908. (SOLD)

Postcard 8 features celebrated stage actress Miss Lily Elsie (1886-1962) in costume for her role in “The Merry Widow” (1907).This postcard was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (4827J). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. The card was postmarked in 1909. This postcard has an interesting message. The writer appears to be having difficult times. She opens the message with the announcement that she can’t afford to send anymore postcards because her “cash is nearly gone”. She also complains about the “rotten weather”. (SOLD)

Postcard 9 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4827S). The card is uncommon. The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. (SOLD)

Postcard 10 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4827P). The photographers of this uncommon image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. (SOLD)

Postcard 11 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4827V). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. (SOLD)

Postcard 12 This postcard captures Elsie in her role in “The Merry Widow”. The card was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4827W). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. (SOLD)

Postcard 13 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4827M). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. The postcard is uncommon. (SOLD)

Postcard 14 was published by C.W.F. & Co. and is part of a series (no.457C). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Johnston & Hoffmann. The card was postmarked in 1905. (SOLD)

Postcard 15 was published by J. Beagles & Co. and is part of a series (no.179L). The photographer of this image of this beautiful actress is celebrated female photographer, Rita Martin. (SOLD)

Postcard 16 was published by Rapid Photo and is part of a series (no.1284). The photographer of this image is the Johnston & Hoffmann studio. (SOLD)

Postcard 17 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4124B). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known studio of Foulsham & Banfield. The card was postmarked in 1907. (SOLD)

Postcard 18 was published by Philco Publishing and is part of a series (no.3381B). The card was written in 1907. (SOLD)

Postcard 19 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4827N). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. The card was postmarked in 1908. (SOLD)

Postcard 20 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.11775A). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known studio of Foulsham & Banfield. (SOLD)

Postcard 21 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.1996A). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known studio of Foulsham & Banfield. The postcard has a 1906 postmark and a British stamp. (SOLD)

Postcard 22 is uncommon and was published by Davidson Brothers and is part of a series (no.1479). The photographer of this image of this beautiful actress is Draycott Galleries . (SOLD)

Postcard 23 was published by J. Beagles and is part of a series (no.127A). The photography studio that took this image of this beautiful actress is Ellis and Walery. (SOLD)

Postcard 24 captures Miss Elsie wearing a fantastic hat and a beautiful smile. Miss Elsie is seen in costume for her role in “A Chinese Honeymoon” (1903). The plot of the play concerns couples who honeymoon in China and unknowingly breaks the kissing laws. The show was the first musical to run over one thousand performances. This postcard was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.1656/C). The photographer of this image is celebrated female photographer, Lizzie Caswall Smith. The postcard has a 1906 postmark and a British stamp. (SOLD)

Postcard 25 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.1656/C). The photographer of this image of this beautiful actress is celebrated female photographer, Rita Martin. The postcard has a 1913 postmark and a British stamp. (SOLD)

Postcard 26 captures Miss Elsie in this photo in her role as Franzi in the stage production of the operetta, “A Waltz Dream”. This postcard was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.11841/F). The photographer of this image of this beautiful actress is the Foulsham & Banfield studio. (SOLD)

Postcard 27 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.11502/C). The photographer of this image of this beautiful actress is the Foulsham & Banfield studio. (SOLD)

Postcard 28 captures Lily Elsie in her role in “The Merry Widow”. This uncommon postcard was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4826A). The photographers of this image is the well known studio of Foulsham & Banfield. The card was postmarked in 1908. (SOLD)

Postcard 29 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.11427B). The photographers of this image is the well known studio of Foulsham & Banfield. (SOLD)

Postcard 30 was published by C.W.F. & Co. and is part of a series (no.457C). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known female celebrity photographer, Lizzie Caswall Smith. The card was postmarked in 1904. (SOLD)

Postcard 31 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.11594C). The photographer of this crisp image of this beautiful actress is the well known celebrity photographic studio, Foulsham & Banfield. This postcard captures Miss Elsie in her role as Alice in “The Dollar Princess” (1909). The venue for the play was Daly’s Theater in London and cast members included Joseph Coyne, Gabrielle Ray, Emmy Wehlen, and Gladys Cooper. (SOLD)

Wedding Photo (1911)

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MAXINE ELLIOTT : STAGE & FILM ACTRESS : BUSINESS WOMAN : CELEBRITY LOVERS : RPPC

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This vintage real photo postcard (Postcard 1) features a portrait of beautiful stage and film actress, and businesswoman, Maxine Elliott (1868-1940). Her photograph was taken by celebrity photographer Benjamin Falk at his New York City studio. Elliott was more than a stage actress. She managed her own theater and experimented with silent films in the 1910’s. Elliott was an extremely popular actress. Apparently she was popular with the men too. It is thought that she had affairs with famous people including King Edward VII and J. P. Morgan. It is also reported that she dated baseball hall of famer, John Montgomery Ward and heavyweight champion Gentleman James Corbett. During World War I she was very involved with the cause for Belgian relief. Elliott was born in Rockland, Maine. Her father was a sea captain. She had at least three siblings including her sister Gertrude Elliott, who also became a successful actress. When Maxine was 15, she was seduced and impregnated by a 25 year-old man. She may or may not have married the man but it is known that she lost the baby. In 1890 she made her first stage appearance. Her big break came in 1895 when she was hired by Augustin Daly to be the supporting actress for the highly acclaimed actress, Ada Rehan. In 1898, after divorcing husband number one, she married comedian Nat C. Goodwin. The two starred together in a number of productions including “Nathan Hale” and “The Cowboy and the Lady”. In 1903, Maxine appeared in the Broadway production of “Her Own Way” (1903). The play launched Maxine into stardom. In 1905, the play went to London where King Edward VII requested an introduction to the pretty actress. They met and then rumors started about the pair having an intimate relationship. In 1908, Goodwin obtained a divorce from Elliott. This is about the time she met 70 year-old J. P. Morgan. They became friends and rumors of their romantic involvement were never confirmed. Financial advice from Morgan helped her become a wealthy woman. The same year as her divorce, she opened her own theater, “The Maxine Elliott” in New York City. She was both the owner and the manager. In fact, she was the only woman in the US, at the time, managing her own theater. In regard to acting on Broadway, Elliott had an extensive resume. She appeared in 22 Broadway productions between 1894 and 1920. In 1913, she began acting in silent films. The IMDb reports that she was in five films including “From Dusk to Dawn” (1913), “Fighting Odds” (1917), and “The Eternal Magdalene” (1919). In 1913, Elliott went to England and started dating tennis star Anthony Wilding, fifteen years her junior. According to one source, the pair planned to marry, but he was killed in action in World War I. As a result, Elliott became obsessed with the war and moved to Belgium where she volunteered her money and time toward Belgian relief. It is reported that she also nursed wounded soldiers. Belgium recognized her by awarding her the Belgian Order of the Crown. Elliott retired from the stage in 1920. She stated that she “wished to grow middle-aged gracefully”. This postcard portrait features a young and beautiful Maxine Elliott. This image is a beautiful remnant of turn of the century theater history. This postcard was published by the Rotograph Company which was based in New York City. The postcard is part of a series (No.B888). SOLD

Postcard 2 features a photograph taken by female celebrity photographer, Lizzie Caswall Smith. Lizzie Caswall Smith (1870-1958) was a British photographer who operated in the early 1900’s. She specialized in photographing members of society and celebrities. Many of her photographs were used for postcards. She was involved in the Women’s Suffrage movement and photographed many of the leading suffragettes. She also photographed many actors including Billie Burke and Maude Fealy. She operated the Gainsborough Studio from 1907 through 1920 (309 Oxford Street) and moved to a new location (90 Great Russell Street) where she remained until she retired in 1930 at the age of 60 years-old. Her most famous photograph is a portrait of Florence Nightingale taken in 1910. It was auctioned in 1908 and sold for 5500 pounds which is an equivalent today of nearly 8,000 dollars. The National Portrait Gallery has 84 portraits associated with Lizzie Caswall Smith. This postcard was published by the Rotograph Company which was based in New York City. The postcard is part of a series (No.B636). SOLD

Postcard 3 features a nice portrait of Maxine Elliott. This image, taken by William Morrison (Chicago, Illinois) is a beautiful remnant of turn of the century theater history. This postcard was published by the Rotograph Company, which was based in New York City. The postcard is part of a series (No.B636). (SOLD)

Postcard 4 features Miss Elliott’s portrait by Ernest Walter Histed (1862-1947). Histed was born in England but achieved his success as a photographer in Chicago, and later, in Pittsburgh. He then returned to England and opened a photography studio there. His subjects there included Clara Butt (Opera Star) Pope Pius X, and the Empress of Germany. Histed returned to the US and opened a studio on Fifth Avenue in New York City. He later moved to Palm Beach, Florida and continued his profession until 1934. The Museum of the City of New York has a large collection of his work. The National Portrait Gallery (England) has 32 of his photographs in their collection. This postcard was published by London’s J. Beagles & Co. as part of a series (No. G386).The company was started by John Beagles (1844-1909). The company produced a variety of postcards including an extensive catalog of celebrity (stage and screen) portrait postcards. After Beagle’s death, the business continued as J. Beagles & Co. until it closed in 1939. (SOLD)

Postcard 5 comes from the studio of celebrity photographer, William McKenzie Morrison of Chicago, Illinois. Morrison’s studio was in the Haymarket theater building. This postcard was published by the Rotograph Company which was based in New York City. The postcard is part of a series (No.B658). (SOLD)

Postcard 6 features a pretty portrait of Miss Elliott taken by R. W. Thomas. It is likely that he is the same man that authored “The Modern Practice of Photography” (1927).This postcard was published by London’s Davidson Bros. as part of a series (No.1200). The message from the sender of this card introduced me to a new word. The writer asks “Isn’t this a beauteous maiden?”. I looked up the word “beauteous” to see if it existed. I learned that the word exists and means “beautiful”. I also learned that “Beauteous” is a word that is customarily used in literature and not conversation. (SOLD)

Postcard 7 Elliott photrographed in costume for her role as Gipsy in “Under the Greenwood Tree”. Her photograph was taken by famed celebrity female photographer, Lizzie Caswall Smith. This image is a beautiful remnant of turn of the century theater history. This postcard was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (No.187E). (SOLD)

Postcard 8 was published by London’s Ralph Dunn & Co. as part of a series (No. A342). (SOLD)

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MAUDE FEALY : AMERICAN FILM & STAGE STAR : BEAUTIFUL : POPULAR MODEL

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POSTCARD 17 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 18 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 19 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 20 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 21 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 22 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 23 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 24 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 25 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 26 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 27 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 28 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 29 (SOLD)

This vintage real photo postcard features American stage and silent and sound film actress, Maude Fealy (1883-1971). Maude was born in Memphis, Tennessee. Her mother was an actress and acting coach. After her mother remarried, she moved to Colorado where Maude called home for much of her life. She made her stage debut at the age of three. she performed at the Elitch Theater numerous times during her childhood. In 1905 she began to be the featured actress in a number of productions. She worked alongside stock player Cecil B DeMille and the pair developed a friendship that lasted many decades. In fact, he cast her in his film “The Ten Commandments” (1956). This postcard illustrates Miss Fealy’s beauty. Her photo postcards were very popular and collectable during her era, as well as today.

Postcard 1 is uncommon. The card was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.1965J), The postcard is of British origin. Note that this postcard is hand tinted and postmarked in Dublin (1906). The card has an interesting message. The writer proclaims “What an innocent face this girl has. Poor thing”. Since when is “innocence” something to pity? (SOLD)

Postcard 2 demonstrates that Miss Fealy was fashionable and quite beautiful. Her photo postcards were very popular and collectable during her era, as well as today. This particular postcard is rare. The portrait for this postcard was taken by the London Stereo Company. The card was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.1965J), The postcard is of British origin. (SOLD)

Postcard 3 was published by Davidson Brothers as part of a series (no.1378), The postcard is of British origin and demonstrates that Maude Fealy was fashionable as well as beautiful. (SOLD)

Postcard 4 is uncommon. The card was published by Raphael Tuck in 1904 as part of the “Stage Favorites: series (no.5058), The postcard is of British origin. (SOLD)

Postcard 5 is rare. The card was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.1928C), The postcard is of British origin. (SOLD)

Postcard 6 is rare. The card was published by Germany’s Rotophot (no.0756). (SOLD)

Postcard 7 was published by Philco as part of a series (no.3107F). The card is beautifully hand colored. The postcard is of British origin. The postcard was postmarked in 1907. (SOLD)

Postcard 8 was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.1861M), This particular card is rare. The postcard has a 1905 postmark and is of British origin. (SOLD)

Postcard 9 has a notable message. The card was written from a man to a woman. The last line of the gentleman’s note states “You ought to be hit in the face with a fish”. He topped it off by drawing a fish at the end of the sentence. He certainly must have been joking but the comment is quite odd by today’s standards. The card was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.1965D). (SOLD)

Postcard 10 is uncommon. The card was published by E. S. London as part of a series (no.1113). (SOLD)

Postcard 11 is rare. The card was published by RotoPhot as part of a series (no.0175). The card is beautifully hand colored. (SOLD)

Postcard 12 is uncommon and the card was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.198 V)), The message on this postcard is an Easter greeting.

Postcard 13 demonstrates that Miss Fealy was fashionable and quite beautiful. Her photo postcards were very popular and collectable during her era, as well as today. This card has a 1904 postmark.It was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.198D), (SOLD)

Postcard 14 was published by J. Beagles 7 Co. as part of a series (no.365H). Miss Fealy’s photo portrait was taken by esteemed celebrity photographers, W & D Downey. The uncommon postcard is of British origin. (SOLD)

Postcard 15 was published by P. F. B. as part of a series (no.4037). P. F. B. is likely a Berlin firm named Paul Finkenrath. However, a second Berlin company named Paul Fink went by the inititials PFB which certainly creates some confusion among postcard collectors. This vintage postcard is uncommon. (SOLD)

Postcard 16 was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.2381). (SOLD)

Postcard 17 is rare. The postcard offers a view of Miss Fealy petting a large dog. It appears to be some type of hound. Maude is flashing a pretty smile and is wearing a feathered hat and a plaid dress and jacket. The card was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.1965A), The postcard is of British origin. (SOLD)

Postcard 18 is rare. The card was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.1861F), The postcard is of British origin and it’s postmark is appears to be from 1906. (SOLD)

Postcard 19 is rare. The card was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.389C). Miss Fealy’s photograph was taken by the esteemed W & D Downey studio. The postcard is of British origin and it’s postmark is from 1905. (SOLD)

Postcard 20 is rare. The card was published by the Schofield Photographic Series (no.428). Three actress portrait postcards from this series can be found in England’s National Portrait Gallery. Miss Fealy’s photograph was taken by the esteemed Johnston & Hoffman studio. The postcard is of British origin and it’s postmark is from 1905. (SOLD)

Postcard 21 is of British origin and is generously hand tinted. The card is identical to Postcard 16 except for the two different hand tintings. (SOLD)

Postcard 22 is uncommon. The card was published by A & G Taylor as part of the “Reality Series”. Miss Fealy’s portrait was taken by the Bassano studio. The postcard is of British origin. (SOLD)

Postcard 23 is uncommon. The card was published by J. Beagles & Co. as part of a series (No.365). The postcard is of British origin (SOLD)

The photo portrait on Postcard 24 was taken by the Johnston & Hoffmann studio. The card is an example of an “Enamelette Postcard”. (SOLD)

Postcard 25 is color tinted and was published by Raphael Tuck as part of the “Celebrities of the Stage” series (no.S1299). The card is an example of an “Silverette Postcard”. (SOLD)

Postcard 26 is an uncommon color tinted vintage lithographic card. It was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (no.198U). (SOLD)

Postcard 27 is uncommon. The card was published as part of the Wrench series (No.10449). Miss Fealy’s portrait was taken by the famous female celebrity photographer, Lallie Charles. The postcard is of British origin and has a 1906 postmark. (SOLD)

Postcard 28 was published by Rotary Photo as part of a series (No.198L). Miss Fealy’s photograph was taken by the Johnston & Hoffmann studio. (SOLD)

Postcard 29 was published by Giesen Brothers & Co. as part of a series (no.K46). The photographer of Maude’s portrait was the Hutchinson & Svendsen studio. The National Portrait Gallery asserts that this pair of photographers were active in London between 1905 and 1906. (SOLD)

POSTCARD 13

POSTCARD 14

POSTCARD 15

POSTCARD 16

POSTCARD 17

POSTCARD 18

POSTCARD 19

POSTCARD 20

POSTCARD 21

POSTCARD 22

POSTCARD 23

Postcard 24

POSTCARD 25

Postcard 26

POSTCARD 27

POSTCARD 28

POSTCARD 29

Published in:

on April 2, 2024 at 12:00 pm Comments (1)
Tags: Cecil B DeMille, Davidson Brothers, E.S. London, Elitch Theater, Enamelette, J. Beagles, Johnston & Hoffman, Lallie Charles, Maude Fealy, P.F/B/, Paul Fink, Paul Finkenrath, Raphael Tuck, Rotary Photo, Rotophot, Silverette, W & D Downey, wrench series

PORTRAITS OF EVELYN MILLARD: SHAKESPEARIAN STAGE ACTRESS (VINTAGE RPPC)

CABINET CARD 1 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 1 (SOLD)

millard 2

POSTCARD 2 (SOLD)

millard

POSTCARD 3 (SOLD)

MILLARD 4 POSTCARD 4 (SOLD)

Cabinet Card 1 was photographed by W & D Downy, located in London, England. This studio was well known and highly respected in England. They advertised themselves as photographers specially appointed to photograph the imperial and royal families of Europe. SOLD

Postcard 1 features a portrait of English stage actress Evelyn Millard (1869-1941). She was well known for her acting in Shakespearian theater as well as for her beauty. She is also noted for creating the role of Cecily Cardewin in the premier of Oscar Wildes play “The Importance of Being Earnest” (1895). This postcard was produced by the Rotary Photo Company of London, England. (SOLD)

Postcard 2 is a portrait of Miss Millard taken by the Davidson Brothers studio in London, England. The postcard is part of a series (“Real Photographic Series” no. 2195). Davidson Brothers was located in both London and New York City. The firm operated between 1901 and 1911. Some of their theatrical postcard portraits have the same format as many of the Rotograph photo cards. This postcard was postmarked in South Lambeth in 1907. Lambeth is a district in Central London. The writer of the message on this postcard starts the communication with “Dear Lizzie, I think this is one of your favorites”. Most likely the writer was stating that Evelyn Millard was one of the favorite actresses of the recipient of the postcard. Collecting postcard images of theatrical stars was certainly quite popular at the time this postcard was written. (SOLD)

The third postcard is color tinted and was produced by the Rotary Postcard Co. as part of the Rotary Photographic Series ( no. 191G). The photographer was T. C. Turner who operated studios in London and Hull, England. Thomas Charles Turner (1839-1896) operated his London studio between 1870 and 1900. Millard is clearly in costume for this portrait. Note her unusual pin. It looks like a multi-eyed horror movie insect. This vintage postcard is in very good condition (see scans). (SOLD)

Postcard number four is rare. Miss Millard looks quite beautiful and is dressed in an exquisite gown. Note, that unlike most of her other portrait postcards, Evelyn has blonde hair. Most of her photo postcards show her with dark hair. It is very possible, even likely, that she is wearing a wig in this portrait. The photographer of this image was the Lafayette studio. The firm was founded in Dublin in 1880 by James Stack Lauder. His father, Edmund Lauder was a pioneering and successful photographer. The elder Lauder used the name “Lafayette’ to give the company a touch of Paris, which was a a city considered the center of the art and photography world. James was joined in business by his three photographer brothers. By the 1900, the company had studios in Glasgow, Manchester, London and Belfast. The studio also was invited to photograph Queen Victoria. The company still exists today. This postcard was published by J. Beagles & Co. of London, England. The postcard is part of a series (no. G 511.P). The “G” is an abbreviation for “glossy”. There was also a matte version of this postcard portrait. John Beagles (1844-1909) was born in England. At age 17 he was a “pupil teacher”. In the census of 1891, he is listed as a “photographic publisher” in Nottingham. Later he established J. Beagles & Co. in London. He and his successors produced a variety of postcards including an extensive catalog of celebrity (stage and screen) portrait postcards. The firm also published topographic and view cards, as well as a series called “Matrimonial Cats”. After Beagle’s death, the business continued as J. Beagles & Co. until it closed in 1939. (SOLD)

POSTCARD 1

millard 2 1

POSTCARD 2

millard3 POSTCARD 3

MILLARD 4 2 POSTCARD 4

Cabinet Card 1

Published in:

on February 11, 2024 at 12:45 pm Comments (1)
Tags: Davidson Brothers, Downy, Evelyn Millard, J. Beagles, Lafayette, Matrimnial Cats, Oscar Wilde, Rotary Photo, The Importance of being Earnest

PORTRAIT OF MUSIC HALL ACTRESS HILDA HAMMERTON (PHOTOGRAPH BY ALEXANDER BASSANO)

This vintage real photo postcard features beautiful music hall actress Miss Hilda Hammerton. Hammerton was known for being one of the “Cozy Corner Girls”. She and Gertrude Thornton, and Clare Richards appeared as the Cozy girls in the musical comedy, “The Earl and the Girl” (1903) which was produced at the Adelphi Theater. “Weekly Magazine” (1904) article reports that Hammerton performed a very heroic act. She risked her life to save the life of a little child. While out walking, she heard people screaming about a little girl in danger who had strayed into the roadway and was in “imminent danger” of being run over by a fast approaching vehicle. The actress ran to the scene and scooped up the child, and barely avoided being hit by the speeding truck. It was reported that witnesses to the scene gave her an ovation for her quick actions. There are three portraits of Miss Hammerton in England’s National Portrait Gallery. The talented photographer responsible for this lovely portrait is Bassano. Two of the three portraits of Hammerton in the National Portrait Gallery are by Alexander Bassano. Bassano (1829 –1913) was a leading royal and high society photographer in Victorian London. This postcard was published in England by the Davidson Brothers. Davidson Brothers was located in both London and New York City. The firm operated between 1901 and 1911. This postcard is part of the “Real Photographic Series” (no. 2253). The message on this postcard is written in French, but the sender mailed it from England. The postmark indicates that it was stamped in Edinburgh, England in 1907. The postcard was mailed to someone in Paris, France. SOLD

Published in:

on March 9, 2018 at 12:00 pm Leave a Comment
Tags: Alexander Bassano, Cozy Girls, Davidson Brothers, Hilda Hammerton

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THE CABINET CARD GALLERY

VIEWING HISTORY, CULTURE AND PERSONALITIES THROUGH CABINET CARD IMAGES

BEAUTIFUL STAGE ACTRESS DENISE ORME (THREE VINTAGE REAL PHOTO POSTCARDS)

GABY DESLYS: BEAUTIFUL AND TALENTED ACTRESS, DANCER AND SINGER

PORTRAITS OF LILY ELSIE: BEAUTIFUL AND TALENTED STAGE ACTRESS (VINTAGE RPPC)

POSTCARD 8 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 10 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 12 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 13 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 15 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 16 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 18 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 19 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 22 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 23 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 24 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 25 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 27 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 28 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 29 (SOLD)

POSTCARD 30 (SOLD)

Postcard 6 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (4484D). The photographer of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. The card was postmarked in 1907. (SOLD)

Postcard 9 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4827S). The card is uncommon. The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known celebrity photographers, Foulsham & Banfield. (SOLD)

Postcard 21 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.1996A). The photographers of this image of this beautiful actress are the well known studio of Foulsham & Banfield. The postcard has a 1906 postmark and a British stamp. (SOLD)

Postcard 27 was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.11502/C). The photographer of this image of this beautiful actress is the Foulsham & Banfield studio. (SOLD)

Postcard 28 captures Lily Elsie in her role in “The Merry Widow”. This uncommon postcard was published by Rotary Photo and is part of a series (no.4826A). The photographers of this image is the well known studio of Foulsham & Banfield. The card was postmarked in 1908. (SOLD)

MAXINE ELLIOTT : STAGE & FILM ACTRESS : BUSINESS WOMAN : CELEBRITY LOVERS : RPPC

MAUDE FEALY : AMERICAN FILM & STAGE STAR : BEAUTIFUL : POPULAR MODEL

PORTRAITS OF EVELYN MILLARD: SHAKESPEARIAN STAGE ACTRESS (VINTAGE RPPC)

PORTRAIT OF MUSIC HALL ACTRESS HILDA HAMMERTON (PHOTOGRAPH BY ALEXANDER BASSANO)

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