Old handwritten letter 1918 Paris – Intimate correspondence, era memories

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Old handwritten letter dated October 5, 1918, written in blue ink on a sheet of cream-colored paper with straight edges. The document is displayed flat on a wooden desk, surrounded by several antique hardcover books, suggesting an authentic writing context from that era. The fine and neat cursive writing covers almost the entire page. The header indicates "Paris 5.10.18" in the top left, followed by a salutation "Chère Maman" (Dear Mother) at the beginning of the text, confirming it is intimate family correspondence. The text, although partially legible in the photo, reveals a personal tone characteristic of private letters from the early 20th century.

The paper shows a slight patina, indicative of its age, without excessive discoloration or major moisture traces visible on the front. No illustrations or printed letterhead are visible, suggesting a blank sheet used for private correspondence. The handwritten script, in blue-violet ink, is continuous across the page, with no apparent erasures on the visible part. Some fold marks are visible in the central part, likely due to previous folding for mailing in an envelope.

The text, although difficult to transcribe entirely, contains legible elements such as the recipient's address ("Chère Maman") and references to daily life at the time. The overall presentation is sober, typical of intimate correspondence from the end of World War I, with a classic epistolary structure (date, salutation, handwritten body of text).

The letter is placed on a wooden desk, in a setting reminiscent of an old library, which reinforces the authenticity and historical character of the document. The corners of the paper are neat, with no visible tears or major stains on the exposed side. The whole is distinguished by a sober aesthetic and period charm, ideal for lovers of family archives, historical correspondence, or old handwritten documents.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Slight folding marks and discreet paper patina visible on the displayed side. No tears or major stains apparent on the photographed area. The writing remains legible despite some variations in ink intensity.

Did you know? Handwritten letters exchanged during World War I represent a valuable source for social and family history. They bear witness to the daily lives, feelings, and concerns of civilians and soldiers, often in a context of separation and uncertainty.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging guaranteed by a professional seller. Each document receives special attention to preserve its integrity during transport.

Keywords: old letter, 1918 correspondence, wartime manuscript, historical document, family memory, intimate letter, Paris 1918, handwritten script, old paper, early 20th century archive, old letter France, French handwritten letter, epistolary document