Victorian general themed postcards

The birth of the postcard can be traced back to the mid-19th century when individuals began sending simple illustrated cards through the mail. The first official postcard, known as a "correspondence card," was introduced in Austria in 1869. These early postcards featured a blank space for a message on one side and an image on the other, but lacked the divided back we associate with modern postcards.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked the Golden Age of Postcards, characterized by a surge in popularity and artistic creativity. Advances in printing technology, such as chromolithography, made mass production of colourful and elaborate postcards feasible. This era witnessed the rise of "souvenir cards," featuring images of tourist destinations, landmarks, and cultural scenes.

In 1907, a pivotal change occurred with the introduction of the divided back postcard, allowing for both the address and message to be written on the back, more... while the front continued to showcase the image. This innovation transformed postcards into a more personal and expressive form of communication, leading to increased popularity and diverse uses.

During World War I and World War II, postcards served as a means of communication between soldiers and their loved ones. Governments also utilized postcards for propaganda, disseminating messages that aimed to boost morale and support wartime efforts. The postcard became a powerful tool in shaping public opinion during these tumultuous periods.

With the advent of more instantaneous communication methods, such as telephone and email, the use of postcards declined in the mid-20th century. However, postcards never faded away entirely. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in postcards as tangible and collectible artifacts. Additionally, artists and designers continue to create innovative and unique postcards, catering to a niche market that values the tactile and personal nature of this form of communication. less...