Late 19th - French Advertising Card - Chromolithograph Baby & Fly Illustration - Auxerre Store Advertisement - Vintage Ephemera

This charming vintage trade card from the Late 19th century advertises Moreau-Gouffier, a business located in Auxerre, France. The front features a vibrant chromolithograph depicting a baby, identified as 'Melle Lili,' startled by a large fly. The caption below reads: 'Melle LILI DANS SON EFFROI SE PRÉPARE À VENGER SON TRAVAIL ABIMÉ' (Miss Lili in her fright prepares to avenge her spoiled work), adding a touch of humor and narrative to the advertisement.

The reverse side of the card details the establishment's offerings. It highlights 'SPÉCIALITÉ DE CHAUSSURES' (Specialty of Shoes) and identifies Moreau-Gouffier as the 'SUCCESSEUR' (Successor) to the 'Ancienne Maison VINCENT-RAVIN' (Former House VINCENT-RAVIN). The address is provided as '17, au coin des rues de l'Horloge et de Paris, Auxerre.' Additionally, the store carried 'BONNETERIE, GANTERIE, MERCERIE, PARFUMERIE' (Hosiery, Gloves, Haberdashery, Perfumery) and 'ARTICLES POUR MILITAIRES' (Articles for Military), including gloves, collars, and decorations. This antique advertising piece provides a fascinating glimpse into French retail and graphic design from the period.