Late 19th - Vintage French Chromo Card - Japanese Children - Butterfly Dance - Advertising - Paris Department Store Ephemera

This is a delightful chromo card from the prominent Parisian department store, A La Ville de Paris. The front features a charming illustration of two young Japanese children, reflecting the popular Japonism trend of the era. One child plays a stringed instrument, while the other gracefully dances with a fan, a butterfly fluttering nearby. The card is titled 'Les Japonais -- La Danse des Papillons,' which translates to 'The Japanese -- The Dance of the Butterflies.'

The reverse side of the card advertises 'A la Ville de Paris' at '170, Rue Montmartre.' It promotes an 'Exposition de jouets et d'Articles pour Étrennes' (Exhibition of toys and articles for New Year's Gifts), indicating a seasonal promotion. This trade card served as an attractive keepsake and an effective marketing tool for the department store in the late 19th century.