Late 19th - Au Printemps Auxerre Department Store Ad Card - Japanese Top Children - French Ephemera - Chromolithograph Gold Gilt

This vintage advertising card, identified as a 'chromo' due to its vibrant colors and rich gold accents, depicts two stylized children in what appears to be traditional Japanese attire, engaged with a 'Toupie Japonaise' (Japanese Top). The illustration features striking gold gilt details, characteristic of late 19th-century chromolithography. The front also bears the inscription 'AU PRINTEMPS – NOUVEAUTÉS' (At Printemps – Novelties) and '6 et 7, Place aux Liens, Auxerre'.

The reverse side of the card serves as an advertisement for the 'Grands Magasins de Nouveautés' (Large Novelty Stores), a department store named Au Printemps in Auxerre. It lists a wide array of merchandise available, including 'Confections pour Dames' (Ladies' Ready-to-Wear), 'Habillement pour Hommes & Enfants' (Clothing for Men & Children), and various fabrics and accessories. The card highlights 'Maison de Confiance' (House of Trust) and mentions 'V. ALBANEL', further detailing their commitment to quality by stating 'Vendre des Etoffes de première qualité est la règle invariable des Grands Magasins du Printemps' (Selling first-quality fabrics is the invariable rule of the Printemps Department Stores).