Late 19th - French Chicory Candeliez Trade Card - Dancing Frog Ballerina Chromo i Advertising Collectible - 'Mon Premier Pas'

This antique Late 19th Century French trade card, a delightful chromo from Chicorée Candeliez, showcases an enchanting anthropomorphic frog illustration. This charming advertising collectible features a whimsical frog dressed as a ballerina, gracefully posed in a white ruffled tutu adorned with delicate pink floral garlands. The vibrant colors and detailed artistry are typical of the era's promotional materials, designed to capture attention and promote the Chicorée Candeliez brand from Sainte-Olle-lez-Cambrai. The card is a wonderful example of vintage advertising ephemera.

The top of the card clearly displays 'Chicorée Candeliez' as the brand and 'à Ste-Olle-lez-Cambrai' indicating its origin in the Nord region of France, an area historically known for chicory production. Below the central dancing frog image, the phrase 'Mon Premier Pas' (My First Step) is printed, adding a humorous and endearing touch to the scene. The visual appeal of this piece is significant, with the frog's expressive eyes and dynamic posture against a simple golden-brown background, making it truly stand out.

Such trade cards were popular in France during the late 19th century, serving as engaging marketing tools to accompany purchases or be distributed to potential customers. This particular chromo, with its unique and playful subject matter, offers a fascinating glimpse into historical advertising practices and the cultural context of chicory consumption. It remains in good condition for its age, displaying the expected signs of vintage wear that enhance its authentic antique charm.