Late 19th - French Advertising Chromos - Moliere, Virgil, Travel Scene - Vintage French Trade Cards - Literary and Historical Illustrations

This collection features three Late 19th-century French advertising chromos, serving as charming trade cards for a local business. Each card boasts a colorful, detailed illustration on its front, drawing inspiration from classical literature and everyday life. These vintage pieces offer a glimpse into the advertising aesthetics of the era, combining artistic appeal with commercial promotion.

One card depicts a scene from Virgil's 'Bucolics,' titled 'Scène des Bucoliques' (Scene from the Bucolics), with a portrait of 'Virgile, né près de Mantoue' (Virgil, born near Mantua). Another illustrates 'Scène du Malade Imaginaire' (Scene from The Imaginary Invalid) by Molière, featuring a portrait of 'J.B. Poquelin dit Molière, né à Paris en 1622, mort en 1673' (J.B. Poquelin known as Molière, born in Paris in 1622, died in 1673). The third card shows a bustling street scene with a carriage and elegantly dressed figures.

The reverse of each card carries the advertisement for 'A. Larrivé, Successeur,' a grocer in Auxerre. The text 'Epicerie, Confiserie, Comestibles' (Grocery, Confectionery, Groceries) along with 'Vins & Liqueurs' (Wines & Liquors) details the goods offered at '50 & 52, Rue du Temple.' These cards are delightful historical artifacts.