Illustrated postcard 1900

The illustrated postcard of 1900 marked the peak of the golden age of correspondence, blending popular art and personal communication.

About this subject

Around 1900, the illustrated postcard enjoyed its golden age. Driven by advances in lithography and reduced postal costs, the format became globally popular, especially in Europe and the United States. Images ranged from urban and rural landscapes to celebrity portraits, caricatures, and everyday scenes. In Brazil, the first postcards appeared in the late 19th century, often depicting Rio de Janeiro and its tourist attractions.

Production relied on techniques such as chromolithography, which produced vibrant colors by printing from multiple limestone plates. Each postcard was a small souvenir, collectible and exchanged among friends and family. It is estimated that in 1900, postcard issuance in the United States exceeded 800 million units per year, boosted by world expositions such as the 1900 Paris Exposition.

Culturally, illustrated postcards played the role of today's social networks: they shared travels, expressed affection, and disseminated novelties. Many were signed by renowned artists like Alphonse Mucha, whose Art Nouveau style dominated the early 20th century. The medium's popularity created a collector's market (cartophily) that persists to this day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did it cost to send a postcard in 1900?

In the United States, mailing a postcard cost 1 cent (a penny), half the price of a letter, which greatly contributed to its massive popularity.

Were illustrated postcards mainly sent or collected?

Both. Many people sent postcards during travels, while others created collection albums, turning the practice into a widespread hobby.

What themes were common on postcards from 1900?

Landscapes, monuments, portraits of famous figures, humorous scenes, and historical events such as the 1900 World's Fair were frequent subjects.