Illustrated postcard 1900

Illustrated postcards from 1900 capture the golden age of postcards, featuring urban scenes and printing techniques like chromolithography.

About this subject

Illustrated postcards from 1900 represent the peak of the postcard craze, a golden age spanning from 1890 to 1910. During this period, postcards exploded in popularity due to cheap postage and efficient mail delivery, especially in urban areas. Collectors estimate that billions of postcards were printed and sent, making them an accessible form of mass communication.

Printing techniques of the time, such as chromolithography and photogravure, enabled colorful and detailed reproductions. Chromolithography used multiple stone plates for each color, resulting in vivid and accurate tones. Photogravure combined photography with intaglio printing, adding texture and depth. These manual processes ensured each postcard was a small work of art, with colors that have endured for over a century.

Themes of illustrated postcards ranged from cityscapes and monuments to historical events and everyday life. Many showcased industrial progress, with factories and railways, or tourist highlights like the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty. They were also used for political and social propaganda, promoting world fairs and public health campaigns. Each postcard is a time capsule, revealing fashions, architecture, and customs of the Belle Époque.

Interestingly, postcards from this era have features that aid in dating. Early postcards had only an illustration on the front and address space on the back, with no room for a message. In 1902, the back was divided into two halves: one for the message and one for the address, a standard that became universal. Watermarks, commemorative stamps, and postmarks also help identify the exact origin and age of a postcard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are postcards from 1900 so sought after by collectors?

They are sought for their rarity, historical value, and artistry. The golden age produced postcards with complex printing techniques and diverse themes, documenting early 20th century life and culture.

What characterizes chromolithography in postcards?

Chromolithography uses multiple stone plates, one for each color, applied in precise registration. This produced vibrant colors and fine details, making each postcard a unique piece.

How can you tell if a postcard is original from 1900?

Check the back: before 1902 it was address-only; after, divided. Look for postmarks, stamps, and watermarks. The quality of paper and printing are also indicators.