This striking real photo postcard features a Tirailleur Malgache—a Malagasy rifleman serving in the French colonial army. The term “Tirailleur” referred to light infantrymen recruited from various parts of France’s overseas empire, including Madagascar, Senegal, and Indochina. This image captures one of these proud soldiers from Madagascar wearing his heavy wool double-breasted greatcoat, high collar with decorative insignia, and the distinctive kepi-style wool cap characteristic of colonial troops during the First World War and interwar years. The soldier’s right hand rests confidently at his side, while a sidearm in a leather holster—most likely a Lebel or Ruby automatic pistol—is clearly visible at his hip, signifying his rank or specialist role within his regiment. His expression is solemn and dignified, reflecting both the discipline and the sacrifice associated with the Tirailleurs who served France across multiple fronts. The postcard was published by A.N. Paris, a French publisher known for high-quality photographic military and ethnographic studies. (SOLD)
This vintage real photo ethnographic postcard features a pretty Vietnamese woman dressed in traditional clothing. This portrait postcard was published in 1907 by P. Dieulefils in the city of Hanoi. Pierre Dieulefils was the first established professional photographer in Hanoi. In addition, he was a postcard editor and explorer. He had an excellent reputation as a photographer throughout Europe and Indochina. He won many medals at Universal Exhibitions. It is estimated that he produced approximately five thousand photos and postcards and he is considered one of the greatest photographers of the region. His photographic expeditions included such locales as Vietnam, China, and Cambodia. This postcard is part of a series (no. 7). As of this writing, the Cabinet Card Gallery has four of Dieulefils’s photo postcards in it’s collection. All four are photographs of Tonkin inhabitants and all are part of the same series.. This photo postcard is in very good condition (see scans). SOLD
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 