1880s Victorian Aesthetic Movement Silk Fringe Card by L. Prang & Co.

Details

Description

A gorgeous piece of late-19th-century Americana, this authentic Victorian greeting devotional card was produced by legendary Boston lithographer Louis Prang. … Read more A gorgeous piece of late-19th-century Americana, this authentic Victorian greeting devotional card was produced by legendary Boston lithographer Louis Prang. Dated circa 1881, the card features a vibrant chromolithograph illustration of pristine white daisies and rich green ferns on a stunning gold accent background.

The front showcases the elegant scriptural passage from Romans 10:11: "Whosoever believeth on HIM shall not be ashamed."True to premium Victorian design, the piece is entirely bordered by its original, delicate white silk fringe trim.

The reverse side reveals a beautiful monochromatic green ink illustration heavily influenced by the late-19th-century Aesthetic Movement, depicting stylized bamboo branches and a small, charming square profile portrait vignette of a Victorian woman. Uniquely preserved, the back remains entirely clean and free of handwritten ink messages.

In the upper write corner written in pencil is 35 cents.
While a standard printed postcard cost just 1 to 2 cents at the time, high-end fringed greeting cards typically sold for anywhere between 25 cents and $1.00 depending on their size and complexity. Fortunately, because it is in pencil, it can be carefully erased with a soft archival eraser if a collector wishes to clean the piece, though many choose to leave these old markings as a part of the card's history.

This exceptional double-sided piece offers dual display possibilities. It makes an elegant statement when float-framed between clear glass, floating beautifully over a colored mat, or displayed on a miniature easel as a desktop or shelf accent.

Details & Condition Summary
4.75Creator / Publisher: Louis Prang & Co., Boston
Period: Late 19th Century (Victorian Era)
Date of Manufacture: Circa 1881
Materials: Chromolithograph on heavy cardstock, silk fringe

Condition: Very Good antique condition. The printed graphics are sharp and colorful. The silk fringe remains fully intact with very minor age-appropriate taming or smoothing required, consistent with a paper piece that is over 140 years old.

7.75” L x 4.75”W See less