This vintage real photo postcard features British stage and film actress, Dodo Watts (1910-1990), She had one appearance on Broadway in “The Middle Watch” (1929).When she retired from acting, she became a career woman. She owned a successful millinery firm in London. She also worked as a casting director for three films. She cast Diana Rigg in her role in “The Avegers” television series. Watts also worked as a theatrical agent. The IMDb credits her with19 film credits between 1925 and 1953. This card was published by Picturegoer as part of a series (no.537). The photograph seen on this card was taken by George Mannell. His firm was located in London, England. SOLD
This vintage portrait postcard captures the elegance and sophistication of Claire Luce, a celebrated American stage and screen actress known for her work in theater and Hollywood during the early to mid-20th century. Photographed by Mannell Studio, London, this stunning black-and-white image exudes the classic glamour of the era, likely from the 1920s or 1930s. In this portrait, Claire Luce is seen wearing a sleek satin gown with a low-cut back, reflecting the timeless fashion of the Art Deco period. Her delicate necklace adds a touch of refinement, while her softly curled platinum blonde hair is meticulously styled in the distinctive finger waves that were highly fashionable during that time. Her expression is both confident and alluring, with a slight smile and a captivating gaze that suggests both poise and mystery. She poses gracefully, her fingers resting near her chin in an elegant yet relaxed manner, enhancing the overall sophistication of the composition. Born in 1903, in Syracuse, New York, Claire Luce became a renowned actress known for her work on both stage and screen. She rose to prominence in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly for her performances in Broadway productions. One of her most notable roles was in Gay Divorce (1932), where she starred alongside Fred Astaire. This production later inspired the classic film The Gay Divorcee (1934), though her role in the film was played by Ginger Rogers. Luce also made a mark in Hollywood, appearing in films such as Up the River (1930), The Cohens and the Kellys in Africa (1931), and Over She Goes (1937). However, her true passion remained the stage, and she continued to shine in numerous theatrical productions, both in the United States and the United Kingdom. Aside from her acting career, Luce was admired for her beauty, grace, and sophisticated sense of style. She was often photographed in elegant gowns, embodying the glamour of the Golden Age of Hollywood and theater. Claire Luce was known for her dedication to her craft, and while she had several notable relationships, she was never widely publicized for her personal life. She married Clifford Warren Smith, an English businessman, though details about their marriage remain relatively private. . Claire Luce’s contributions to theater and film continue to be remembered by classic cinema enthusiasts and theater historians. Her connection to Fred Astaire and the Broadway stage solidifies her place in entertainment history. George Mannell (London) is the photographer who took this postcard’s photo portrait. The postcard is relatively uncommon.
The photo postcard features Enid Lowe (1908-1994) in an elegant and theatrical pose. She was a British actress known for her work in television and theater, with notable appearances in productions such as “BBC Sunday-Night Theatre” (1950), “Educated Evans” (1957), and “Loot” (1970). In 1941, she performed in the musical “London Rhapsody” at The London Palladium. This postcard is a testament to Enid Lowe’s beauty. She is dressed in period-style attire. Her outfit includes a lavish gown with a soft, flowing texture, possibly made of silk or satin, adorned with delicate lace and ribbon details. The bodice has a gentle scalloped trim, and she wears long gloves, adding to the refinement of her look. Her accessories are striking—she wears an elaborate wide-brimmed hat with a voluminous, gathered crown, likely made of soft fabric. Her jewelry is ornate, consisting of large, dangling earrings with multiple tiers and a matching necklace of pearl-like beads. These accessories enhance the regal and theatrical nature of the portrait. Enid Lowe’s facial expression is poised and slightly enigmatic. Her dark, wavy hair is styled in an elegant, vintage fashion, framing her face beautifully. Her eyes, accentuated with dark makeup, have a confident and alluring gaze, and her lips are slightly parted, conveying a subtle yet engaging expression. The soft lighting highlights her delicate features, giving her a luminous and almost ethereal appearance. The photographer of this image, George Mannell, was based in London and was active in the early 20th century. He specialized in theatrical and celebrity portrait photography, producing high-quality postcards featuring actors and actresses of the time. His work captured the glamour and artistry of stage performers, often presenting them in elaborate costumes and dramatic poses to appeal to both fans and collectors. His work often appeared in publications such as the Picturegoer series, a popular British postcard collection featuring film stars and entertainers. SOLD
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