Old birth announcement 1957 Marseille + vintage retro stamped envelope

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This lot consists of a birth announcement dated May 6, 1957, accompanied by its original stamped and postmarked envelope from Marseille. The rectangular card features black typographic printing on off-white cardstock, typical of birth announcements from the second half of the 20th century. The text announces the birth of two children, Olivier and Isabelle, on behalf of Brigitte Paul and her parents, with the Parisian address of the senders mentioned. The printing is clear, with elegant and sober typography, faithful to the administrative and family aesthetic of the 1950s.

The enclosed envelope is visible in the foreground, addressed to "Madame Blanc and her children, 80 rue de Rome, Marseille." It bears a blue stamp with a heraldic motif (fleur-de-lis and escutcheon), and a partially legible postmark dated "29-5 1957 BB Muratti." The handwritten inscription in black ink adds a personal dimension to the object, highlighting its authenticity and original postal use.

The announcement does not feature any decorative elements or graphic motifs, but the careful layout, the use of capital letters for the first names, and the overall discretion attest to the refined style of the era. The card appears to be in good general condition, with no tears or visible stains on the exposed side. The envelope shows slight signs of wear and a patina consistent with its age, while remaining legible and structurally intact.

The photograph highlights the contrast between the whiteness of the paper and the antique bookshelf background, accentuating the retro and heritage character of this official family document. The vintage stamp and postal mark add historical value and bear witness to the letter's actual postal journey.

The ensemble perfectly illustrates the epistolary and ceremonial customs of 1950s France, with an authenticity reinforced by the joint presence of the original card and envelope.

Condition

Used item sold as is. Card and envelope in good visible condition, with traces of age and slight patina on the envelope. No major apparent defects on the side shown.

Did you know? Personalized birth announcements, accompanied by stamped and mailed envelopes, were a common practice in post-war France. The sober presentation and refined typography reflect the family customs of the 1950s, a period when postal mail remained the primary means of communicating private announcements.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging by a professional seller specializing in antique documents and vintage items.

Keywords: 1950s birth announcement, old Marseille letter, retro official document, vintage baptism card, 1957 stamped envelope, vintage family announcement, old birth announcement, 1950s retro announcement, antique French stationery, vintage correspondence, Paris Marseille announcement, cardstock announcement