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"Description
Discover an exceptional piece of Canadian wilderness captured in time with this stunning chrome postcard of Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park. The breathtaking panoramic view showcases the iconic Canadian Rockies in all their majestic glory.
The photograph captures a perfect moment of serenity with the lake's mirror-like surface creating flawless reflections of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and cloud-dappled blue sky. Such pristine mountain vistas are becoming increasingly rare in our changing world.
In the foreground the rocky shoreline provides a natural frame drawing the eye toward the magnificent mountain backdrop. The mountains visible include Mt. Paul Monkhead Mt. Warren the Saddle Mt. Mary Vaux and the impressive Coronet Glacier.
Photographed by renowned Canadian photographer Carole Harmon and distributed by the historic Byron Harmon Photos of Banff this postcard represents the gold standard of Canadian wilderness photography. The Harmon name is synonymous with the finest documentation of the Canadian Rockies.
Historical Significance
Byron Harmon was a pioneering photographer who began documenting the Canadian Rockies in the early 1900s creating one of the most significant visual records of this magnificent wilderness. His legacy continued through the work of later photographers like Carole Harmon.
Jasper National Park established in 1907 is Canada's largest Rocky Mountain park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This postcard captures one of its most celebrated landmarks – Maligne Lake – known for having some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in North America.
These photographic records are becoming increasingly precious documents as climate change dramatically alters the appearance of these glacial landscapes. The glaciers visible in this 1985 image have receded significantly in the decades since.
This postcard represents a disappearing piece of history showing Jasper National Park during a period when it was experiencing growing recognition as a global natural treasure. The 1980s marked a pivotal time for Canadian national parks as they balanced increased tourism with conservation efforts.
Condition
This postcard is in good used condition having been genuinely mailed in 1985 giving it authentic historical character. The postmark and handwritten message provide tangible connections to the past that cannot be replicated.
There is a vertical fold line on the right side of the image and some light edge wear consistent with its age and mailing history. Despite these minor flaws the colors remain remarkably vibrant and the photographic details are crisp and clear.
The message on the reverse reads: 'Hi! Beautiful trip so far - Weather has been ideal. Lots of 'foul ups' in travel scheduling but all in all it has been fun. See you soon. Peggy & Bob' – a charming snapshot of a 1980s Canadian Rockies vacation experience.
The postcard features a 39¢ Canadian stamp with an antique settle-bed design and a clear September 3 1985 postmark. Such complete postal history adds significant collector interest to this piece.
Age/Era
This chrome postcard dates precisely to 1985 as confirmed by the clear postmark. This places it in the later chrome era when photographic quality and color reproduction had reached new heights of excellence.
The 1980s represent an interesting transitional period in postcard production and national park documentation. Modern enough to showcase vivid color photography yet distant enough to capture a wilderness that has since been altered by climate change and increased development.
The cars fashion and tourism infrastructure that would have been present in the park at this time are now nostalgic reminders of a bygone era. Once it's gone it's gone forever – these authentic windows into the past become scarcer with each passing year.
Postcards from this specific time period are now entering the realm of true vintage collectibles as they pass the 35+ year mark. Their historical significance grows with each passing year.
Rarity
While chrome postcards of national parks were produced in significant numbers finding examples with: 1) a clear postmark 2) an intact message 3) a perfect stamp and 4) detailed identification of specific geographic features is increasingly difficult.
The detailed reverse description identifying each mountain peak and glacier makes this an especially valuable documentation of Maligne Lake's geography. Many postcards simply provide generic descriptions whereas this one offers specific geological information.
The Byron Harmon Photos imprint adds collector value as this historic photography studio has documented the Canadian Rockies for generations. Their postcards are sought after by serious collectors of Canadian photography and national park memorabilia.
This may be your only chance to own this specific view of Maligne Lake as it appeared in 1985 complete with its original postal history. As vanishing ephemera these authentic used postcards are disappearing from the market at an accelerating rate.
Collector's Note
This postcard would make an exceptional addition to collections focused on: Canadian National Parks mountain landscapes wilderness photography or geographic documentation of glacial regions. The precise dating and mountain identification add significant reference value.
The small illustration of a bighorn sheep with 'CANADIAN ROCKIES' text on the reverse adds charm and collecting interest. The stock number KS-7067 allows for precise cataloging in specialized collections.
Perfect for display alongside other Canadian wilderness images or as part of a thematic collection of mountain lakes and reflections. The dramatic mountain scenery and mirror-like water make this an especially aesthetic example.
Buy multiple postcards and pay only ONE low shipping cost!
Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of vanishing Canadian wilderness history. This postcard captures a moment in time at one of North America's most spectacular mountain lakes – a natural landscape that continues to change with each passing season."
_gsrx_vers_1723 (GS 9.9.3 (1723))
Condition: Used
Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.