Description: We hope you are pleased with your purchase. Post your satisfactory comments - which lets us know you received your item - and we will do same. Thank you. Please note shipping method to calculate arrival time (see below). Want to see more of our eclectic listings? Please visit our eBay store: Over the Moon! (Click on “Seller’s other items”) ANTIQUE POSTCARD BONNE ANNÉE (FRENCH, HAPPY NEW YEARS) SKIING CHILDREN WAVE TO THE MAN IN THE MOON WHO SMOKES A PIPE & BLOWS SMOKE RINGS IN THE SHAPE OF FOUR-LEAF CLOVERS, SIGNATURE BY POSTCARD ARTIST JOHN WILLS Publisher: Wilhelm S. Schroeder Nachf. (Max Wollstein) Berlin A little background on THE MAN IN THE MOON: The "Man in the Moon" motif was a popular and significant element in antique postcards, particularly those from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This imagery held several layers of meaning and cultural significance: Romantic Symbolism The Man in the Moon was often used as a romantic symbol in vintage postcards. These cards frequently depicted: A young man gazing up at the moon, from which the face of a beautiful woman looks down. This imagery represented longing, love, and the connection between distant lovers. Folklore and Mythology The Man in the Moon concept has roots in various cultures' folklore and mythology: It personified the moon, giving it human-like qualities. This anthropomorphization made the moon more relatable and added a whimsical element to the postcards. Artistic Expression The Man in the Moon provided artists with a unique canvas for creativity: It allowed for the blending of reality and fantasy in a single image. Artists could use the moon's face to convey different emotions or expressions, adding depth to the postcard's message. Technological Novelty Some antique postcards featuring the Man in the Moon incorporated innovative printing techniques: Luminous postcards that glowed in the dark were particularly popular, showcasing the moon and stars. These special effects added an element of wonder and novelty to the postcards. Cultural Zeitgeist The popularity of the Man in the Moon in postcards reflected the cultural fascination with space and celestial bodies during the early 20th century: It coincided with growing scientific interest in astronomy and space exploration. The imagery tapped into the sense of mystery and romance associated with the night sky. By incorporating the Man in the Moon, antique postcards captured the imagination of both senders and recipients, blending romantic sentiments, cultural folklore, and artistic expression into a small, shareable format. This made them not just communication tools, but also collectible pieces of art that reflected the aesthetic and cultural values of their time. About the Artist: JOHN WILLS was an American artist who created postcards in the 1930s-1940s era. He is known for his illustrations that appeared on vintage postcards, particularly those depicting humorous or sentimental scenes. Wills was active in creating postcard art primarily. His postcards often featured lighthearted, whimsical illustrations; some of his most recognizable designs feature children in various activities. Many of Wills' postcards included short captions or phrases that complemented the imagery, often with a touch of humor or sentimentality. Popular themes in his work included children playing, romantic couples, and holiday greetings. In addition to standalone postcards, Wills' artwork was also used for greeting cards and other printed materials of the era. His postcards were widely distributed and remain collectible items today, appearing frequently on vintage postcard selling sites and auctions. Wills charming and nostalgic postcard designs have earned him a place among notable early 20th century postcard artists. His work continues to be sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of vintage ephemera. ANTIQUE POSTCARD DISCLAIMER: I try to photograph my antique postcard listings as accurately as possible to reflect color and condition. That said, I have found this is very difficult to achieve. Lighting and camera angle are arbitrary. As I do not have a ‘professional’ set up, I have found it is difficult to photograph the card dead on which often makes the card seem out of square…which is almost always not the case. Accuracy as to color and definition is also difficult to capture. Today’s photography often imposes a ‘brilliance’ to the image that is not reflected in person. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. Any prices written on the backs of cards were there when purchased 40+ years ago. Thank you! Condition: Please examine photos. Colors are bright. Some scuffing and soiling. If you have a problem with your transaction, please contact me first so we can work together to solve the problem. ABOUT SHIPPING: MEDIA MAIL: When an item qualifies for “Media Mail shipping”, I make an effort to minimize shipping costs for my buyers and opt for this shipping method. However, arrival times can be lengthy (I’ve experienced up to 2-4 weeks arrival time!) and I understand there is a slightly increased risk of damage. If you wish me to upgrade the shipping method for you in order to receive your purchase earlier or reduce the risk of possible damage, please do not hesitate to ask. On ‘EXPENSIVE TO SHIP’ items, always happy to investigate a more economic option. Just ask! This item is located in a rural area; mailing is typically done once a week. Please note shipping method - as this can greatly affect delivery time, i.e. Economy & Media Mail likely take much longer. Weather & holidays can also affect delivery. If your purchase is to go FedEx, fyi: it must be shipped the same day the postage is purchased. Again, we are located in a rural area and that may affect shipping. However, we have an excellent track record for timely shipping. Also: I am absolutely willing to ship using a more economical method for my buyers. So, please feel free to make a suggestion. Feel free to contact me with any questions before bidding and I will answer them as best as I can. I do not claim to be an expert on any item for sale. Every effort has been made for accurate description; this item is sold "as is" as described. As always, if you wish to see additional images, just ask! Sale is final. No returns. Insurance can be provided at Buyer's request and must be added to your prepayment. By placing a bid on this item, you are agreeing to these terms. Thank you for looking at my listing. I appreciate your business!
Price: 19 USD
Location: Port Angeles, Washington
End Time: 2024-11-25T15:43:16.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Unit of Sale: Single Unit
Type: Printed (Lithograph)
Occasion: New Year
Theme: Greetings
Country/Region of Manufacture: Germany
Postage Condition: Posted
Subject: Children