Late 19th - 2 Trade Cards - Parisian Haberdashery Advertising Chromos - Humorous Sailor and Strongman Illustrations - Vintage Ephemera

This charming pair of Late 19th-century trade cards hails from the 'Galerie Parisienne' located at 19, Faubourg Montmartre, 19. These vibrant advertising chromos showcase a unique blend of humor and artistry, typical of the era's promotional materials.

One card depicts a jovial sailor, seemingly battling seasickness, with the humorous denial: 'Le mal de mer! Moi, un vieux de la cale! Jamais!!!' (The sea sickness! Me, an old deckhand! Never!!!). The second card features a strongman whose barbell comically falls apart, accompanied by the caption: 'Malheur! mon poids qui se décartonne!' (Misfortune! my weight is coming unstuck!).

The reverse of these delightful cards reveals they advertise a 'Grande Maison de Mercerie' (Grand Haberdashery House) operated by Vve Leclerc & M. Bourgeois. They highlight a 'Rayon Spécial de Modes Confectionnées' (Special Department for Ready-Made Fashions), offering passementerie, modes & soieries, and rubans (trimmings, fashions & silks, and ribbons), providing a fascinating peek into historic Parisian commerce.