Old postcard Arras 1914-1918 WW1 War Grands-Vieziers street photo

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This old postcard depicts a striking scene from World War I in Arras, taken on Rue des Grands-Vieziers on October 9, 1914. The black and white photograph, typical of the 1910s, shows a devastated urban landscape, where ruined buildings frame a street strewn with rubble. In the center, some buildings are still standing in the background, while the façades in the foreground bear witness to the violence of the fighting and bombardments.

At the top of the card is a printed caption: "GUERRE 1914-1915. ? ARRAS ET LES ALLEMANDS. ? LA RUE DES GRANDS-VIEZIERS, 9 OCTOBRE 1914. ? ARRAS AND THE GERMANS. ? THE GRANDS-VIEZIERS STREET, 9TH OF OCTOBER 1914." This dual inscription in French and English specifies the historical context and the exact location of the scene.

The photographic composition, centered on the street's perspective, highlights the extent of the destruction and the depth of the urban field. The visual style is characteristic of documentary postcards published during the Great War, with monochrome printing and visible photographic grain. At the bottom left, the mention "Reproduction Interdite" (Reproduction Forbidden) is printed, indicating a regulated edition.

The card's surface shows visible signs of wear: discoloration spots, handling marks, and slight patina, typical of a period document preserved for over a century. No reverse side or non-visible area is described here, in accordance with the view provided.

The whole faithfully illustrates the impact of the conflict on Arras's urban heritage, offering a direct and striking testimony of World War I through the lens of the era.

Condition

Used item sold as is. Presence of wear marks, slight stains, and patina consistent with the postcard's age. The visible side remains legible and well-preserved for a piece from this period.

Did you know? Arras was one of the major theaters of World War I, suffering significant destruction as early as 1914. Rue des Grands-Vieziers, now rebuilt, was a direct witness to the fighting between German and French forces during the Battle of Arras.

AFW Reassurance

Your order will be carefully packaged and shipped promptly by a professional seller specializing in antique and historical objects.

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