Old Postcard Ocean Liner Afrique Chargeurs Réunis Shipping Company

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Visual Description

This old postcard features a steamship named "Afrique" from the Compagnie des Chargeurs Réunis. On the front, the photograph shows the ship from a starboard side view, at sea, captured in a black and white style typical of the early 20th century. The image presents a careful composition with the steamship well-centered, its two masts erect, an imposing central funnel, and several superimposed decks, characteristic of transatlantic liners of that era. The inscription "Afrique" Compagnie des Chargeurs Réunis is clearly printed at the top of the card, allowing for precise identification of the subject and the shipping company.

The ship flies a flag at the stern and displays architectural details typical of early 20th-century liners, such as railings, suspended lifeboats, and stepped superstructures. The photographic rendering reveals a slight patina and image grain that enhance the historical character of the document. No other graphic or decorative elements are visible on this side; it is a sober presentation, faithful to period maritime documentation.

The postcard itself is presented on an old wooden background, accentuating the vintage look and authenticity of the object. The edges of the card appear clean, with no visible tears on the photographed side, although slight corner wear is noticeable, typical of an old document handled over time.

The typography used for the caption is fine and discreet, positioned in the upper left, with the text perfectly legible. No handwritten text or additional annotations appear on the visible side, apart from a small number "15" inscribed in the upper left, probably a classification or archiving reference.

The shades of gray, the soft contrast, and the overall sharpness of the photo are consistent with postcard printing processes of the early 20th century, a period during which the Compagnie des Chargeurs Réunis was particularly active on maritime routes to Africa.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The visible side shows good overall preservation, with a slight patina and some traces of wear consistent with the age of the document. No major defects are observable on the photographed surface, apart from moderate corner wear.

Did you know? The steamship "Afrique" of the Compagnie des Chargeurs Réunis was put into service at the very beginning of the 20th century and mainly provided the connection between France and West Africa. This ship is sadly famous for having sunk off the French coast in January 1920, causing one of the greatest civilian maritime tragedies of the time with over 500 victims.

AFW Reassurance

Fast and careful shipping, professional packaging suitable for antique documents. Professional seller specializing in historical and heritage objects.

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