A boy in suspenders, a puppy at his side, a love letter going into the mailbox — Clapsaddle at her most tender.
Ellen Hattie Clapsaddle (1865–1934) is recognized as the most prolific postcard and greeting card artist of the Edwardian era — the first and only female souvenir postcard artist of her time to establish her own enterprise. Working with the International Art Publishing Company of New York, her illustrations appeared on postcards, porcelain goods, calendars, and trade cards distributed worldwide. Her signed cards are actively collected by deltiologists (postcard collectors) around the world. This card is copyrighted 1912 by the International Art Publishing Company. Used — written on the back in ink, but never posted or mailed. Two corners appear lightly trimmed (possibly by design), a faint fold line on the left edge — all photographed.
A significant find for a Clapsaddle collector, a postcard enthusiast, or anyone who believes Valentine's Day deserves something with a century of history behind it.
Type: Original antique postcard — not a reproduction
Artist: Ellen Hattie Clapsaddle (1865–1934), signed
Publisher: International Art Publishing Co., USA, copyright 1912
Dimensions: Approximately 5.5 × 3.5 inches
Condition: Very good antique — written on reverse (not posted); minor border wear; corners possibly trimmed; faint fold line left edge (all photographed)
