French postcard representing a young woman surrounded by flowers with the legend "Bonne fête". This postcard dates from 1900s.

In Europe and probably in other countries, it is tradition to wish a "bonne fête" to relatives and friends according to their first name and the calendar of saints. It is a tradition dating from the 16th century that lasted until the beginning of the 20th century and is gradually being lost.

Huge French lottery tickets "Le petit quinquin" from 1942.

These lottery tickets were sold on the street or in small shops to help veterans.

Huge French lottery tickets "Loterie Nationale" from 1941.

These lottery tickets were sold on the street or in small shops to help veterans.

French postcard representing a young woman surrounded by flowers with the legend "Bonne fête". This postcard dates from 1900s. it has been sent, but the back is unwritten.

Old French photograph of a middle class woman in the 1910s