Handwritten letter 1918 on letterhead, intimate wartime correspondence

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This vintage handwritten letter, carefully presented in a black frame, stands out with its "89, Avenue Henri Martin (16e)" letterhead, typical of early 20th-century bourgeois correspondence. The text is written in black ink, with a dense and regular cursive script, characteristic of the 1910-1920 period. The calligraphy is elegant, revealing a practiced hand, likely feminine, which corroborates the keywords indicating a letter from Yvette's mother, dated 1918.

The letter occupies almost the entire visible surface, with a black margin carefully framing the sheet, with no apparent overflow. The printed letterhead, centered at the top of the paper, gives this document a formal yet personal feel. In the upper left part, a stylized monogram is visible, adding a touch of authenticity and refinement to the whole.

The handwritten text begins with "Ma chère Marie," followed by personal and intimate content. Some passages are legible, mentioning first names like Françoise, Jean, Louis, and referring to family concerns, illustrating the private and emotional dimension of the correspondence. The mention of the war in the keywords suggests a strong historical context, typical of family exchanges during World War I, but the exact content is limited to what is visible in the photo.

The visual condition of the letter is generally good: the paper shows no major stains, tears, or significant creases in the visible area. The ink remains well-contrasted, with no noticeable signs of fading. The black frame highlights and protects the document, while allowing for an elegant presentation on a desk, bookshelf, or display case.

The photograph features the object in front of an old wooden bookcase, emphasizing the historical and heritage character of the letter. The bound books visible in the background reinforce the impression of authenticity and seriousness of the document.

Condition

Used letter, sold as is. The paper and ink show good preservation on the visible side. Neat black frame. No major observable defects in the photographed area.

Did you know? Family correspondence during World War I is a valuable source for the social and intimate history of the period. Letters exchanged between the front and home testify to the anxieties, hopes, and disrupted daily lives of French families. Parisian addresses such as Avenue Henri Martin were often the starting point for letters intended to morally support loved ones engaged in the conflict.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging ensured by a professional seller, to guarantee the preservation of this historical document.

Keywords: handwritten letter 1918, intimate correspondence, war memory, historical document, old letter, letterhead, World War I, cursive writing, women's letter, Paris 16e, old letter, French manuscript, family letter