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"Description
Discover a heartwarming glimpse into America's cherished holiday past with this beautiful J.L.G. Ferris Christmas scene! This pristine unused postcard captures the emotional moment of a colonial family reunion during Christmas 1784.
The evocative artwork depicts a touching homecoming as a married daughter returns to her family home by horse-drawn coach. The father's joy is palpable as he cradles a small child while greeting his daughter who steps elegantly from the coach in her vibrant red cape.
Snow blankets the ground around the sturdy stone colonial home creating that quintessential early American Christmas atmosphere we all associate with simpler more meaningful holiday celebrations. The warm golden glow emanating from within speaks to the hearth and home values of our nation's formative years.
Every detail is rendered with Ferris's renowned historical accuracy - from the period-appropriate clothing to the architectural elements of the colonial dwelling. A loyal dog and attentive coachman complete this snapshot of 18th-century American domestic life.
This card comes from the highly sought-after 'EARLY AMERICA POSTCARDS' series which reproduces the celebrated historical paintings of J.L.G. Ferris - an artist whose patriotic works have graced everything from textbooks to museum walls. His vibrant interpretations of American history continue to shape our national imagination.
Historical Significance
This touching scene captures a pivotal moment in American history - just one year after the Treaty of Paris officially ended the Revolutionary War. During this fragile period of national identity formation family bonds and holiday traditions took on special significance.
Jean Leon Gerome Ferris (1863-1930) dedicated his artistic career to creating historically accurate depictions of America's past. His 78-painting series 'The Pageant of a Nation' represents the most comprehensive visualization of American history by a single artist.
Christmas celebrations in 1784 America would have blended various traditions from the colonists' European backgrounds. The emphasis on family gathering depicted here reflects the emerging American values that would come to define our national character.
This particular scene illuminates the transportation challenges of the period when a family visit might require days of difficult travel by coach over rough roads. Such journeys were precious infrequent events rather than the casual visits we take for granted today.
Holiday artwork from this specific historical period is increasingly difficult to find in such well-preserved condition. Each piece represents a vanishing connection to our shared cultural heritage that grows more precious with time.
Condition
This postcard remains in exceptional unused condition for its age having been carefully preserved for five decades since its production in 1972. Such pristine examples are becoming increasingly scarce in today's market.
The front image displays remarkable color saturation and clarity allowing all the rich details of Ferris's original artwork to shine through. The warm tones and subtle lighting effects are beautifully preserved.
The reverse side is completely clean and unmarked with no writing postmarks or postal usage of any kind. The blue printed text remains crisp and legible with the original descriptive title clearly visible.
There is some light to moderate age toning/yellowing at the edges - an authentic characteristic that confirms this is a genuine vintage piece rather than a modern reproduction. This natural aging actually enhances its appeal to serious collectors.
No significant creases tears or damage mar this excellent example. Only minimal edge wear consistent with age is present and it does not detract from the overall presentation or collectibility.
Age/Era
This postcard was produced in 1972 by Paw Paw Plastics Laminating Service of Michigan as confirmed by the copyright information clearly printed on the reverse. This precise dating adds significantly to its provenance and collector value.
The early 1970s marked a period of renewed interest in American history as the nation approached its Bicentennial celebrations. This card represents that era's appreciation for our colonial heritage and foundational stories.
While modern in production this card reproduces artwork that captures the spirit and aesthetic of late 18th century America with remarkable fidelity. The historical subject matter transcends the physical age of the card itself.
The printing techniques and color processing are absolutely characteristic of chrome postcards from this specific period. These technical elements provide definitive authentication for specialized collectors.
Cards from educational historical series like this are increasingly recognized for their cultural and historical significance beyond mere postcard collecting. They represent a disappearing form of historical documentation from the pre-digital era.
Rarity
While not extremely rare in general terms well-preserved unused examples of this specific card are becoming increasingly difficult to locate. Most have been written on damaged or lost to time over the past five decades.
J.L.G. Ferris artwork has developed a dedicated collector following with enthusiasts specifically seeking out his historical American scenes. This Christmas-themed example combines multiple collecting interests enhancing its desirability.
The 'EARLY AMERICA POSTCARDS' series has a particular appeal to those collecting Americana historical art reproductions and educational ephemera. Complete sets are quite challenging to assemble today.
Holiday-themed historical postcards represent a specialized niche that continues to grow in popularity as more collectors discover the charm and historical value of these carefully researched scenes. Once these original 1970s examples are gone they're gone forever.
This card's pristine condition places it among the higher-quality specimens still available to collectors. Each passing year fewer of these vintage cards remain in such excellent unmarked condition.
Collector's Note
This exceptional postcard represents the perfect intersection of multiple collecting interests: American history Christmas traditions fine art reproduction and vintage ephemera. Such crossover appeal makes it particularly desirable.
The card would display beautifully as part of a seasonal holiday collection or alongside other historical American scenes. Its standard size makes it perfect for framing or inclusion in protective album pages.
J.L.G. Ferris's artwork continues to appreciate in recognition and value as art historians reassess his contributions to American historical visualization. Collectors who recognize his significance are actively seeking examples of his work in all formats.
This may be your ONLY CHANCE to acquire this specific J.L.G. Ferris Christmas scene in such remarkable unused condition. When this card joins another collection a similar example may not become available for years.
Buy multiple postcards and pay only ONE low shipping cost!
Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a beautiful piece of American Christmas history before it disappears into another permanent collection!"
_gsrx_vers_1715 (GS 9.9.2 (1715))
Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.