Late 19th - Two Humorous Vintage French Chromos - Child Concierge on Feather Duster - Boy with Candle Snuffer Ladder - Ephemera Artwork

These charming vintage French chromolithographs, dating back to the late 19th century, offer a delightful glimpse into the whimsical artistry and everyday life representations popular during the Victorian era. These two antique trade cards, possibly collected or used for promotional purposes, feature unique illustrations with a distinct graphic style. Each card presents a small, detailed scene perfect for collectors of historical ephemera and vintage paper art.

The first card illustrates a captivating scene featuring a small, stylized boy figure. He is depicted whimsically riding a substantial feather duster, like a broomstick, while holding a letter that appears to be a bill or a request for payment, with the visible text 'Mon - Monsieur - Veuillez - Payer'. Behind him, a building wall proudly displays a sign with the word 'Concierge' prominently printed. Below the whimsical depiction, the caption 'Mon concierge' reinforces the humorous portrayal of this classic building attendant.

The second card presents a serene yet engaging domestic scene. A tall, lit candle, rendered with beautiful detail, stands firmly in an ornate, dark red and gold candle holder, perched on a wide, glistening golden base. A small, gnome-like character or boy, dressed in a light-colored outfit and a distinctive blue-banded cap, is shown diligently ascending a wooden ladder propped against the candle. He holds a black, cone-shaped object, likely a candle snuffer or a tool for lighting, near the dancing flame.

Both pieces exhibit the characteristic speckled texture of chromolithography, showcasing the vibrant colors and intricate details that made these prints highly sought after. They are in remarkably good condition for their age, showing only minor signs of wear consistent with historical paper items. These unique illustrations would make a fascinating addition to any collection of antique prints, adding a touch of late 19th-century charm and character.