Old handwritten letter 39-45 War on "La Protectrice assurance" paper
AFW - Antique France Worldwide
Description
Period handwritten letter, written in blue ink on a sheet with printed letterhead "LA PROTECTRICE Compagnie Anonyme d’Assurances à Primes Fixes". The paper features a typical layout from the 1930s-1940s, with the company’s details (45-47, Rue de Chabrol, Paris XIe), executive offices, and types of insurance offered. The letter is entirely handwritten on the visible side, horizontally and on the left margin, which testifies to a complete use of the available surface, often found in wartime correspondence.
The right part of the sheet features the handwritten note "Paris ce lundi 14…" at the top, followed by dense, cursive text. The handwriting, typical of the mid-20th century, is fluid, slanted, and cramped, conveying a context of urgency or emotion. The paper has a light cream tint, without lines, with a smooth texture visible in light, and no decoration apart from the professional letterhead.
The "LA PROTECTRICE" letterhead and typewritten details in black are clear and legible. Several handwritten paragraphs are distinguishable, some on the left margin, containing annotations or additions, a sign of detailed personal correspondence. The letter appears to be addressed to a loved one, likely in a context of separation related to the war, which keywords and text structure confirm.
The document is photographed on a dark wooden desk, with old leather-bound books in the background, which highlights the authenticity and age of the piece. No major folds, tears, or stains are visible on the presented side, apart from slight use-related patina consistent with its age. The bottom edge appears straight, with no signs of recent cutting.
This is a Second World War period archival document, both a testament to daily life and a medium of intimate expression. This type of letter, handwritten on company letterhead, was common among mobilized employees or executives, reflecting both the professional and personal context.
Condition
Used item, sold as is. The visible side shows no major defects, apart from period wear consistent with an old letter. The ink remains legible and the paper well-preserved.
Did you know? Handwritten correspondence during the Second World War was frequently written on company letterhead, due to a lack of personal supplies, especially in contexts of displacement or mobilization. Insurance companies like "La Protectrice" played a crucial role in risk management during periods of conflict.
AFW Reassurance
Your purchase will be carefully packaged and shipped quickly by a professional seller, specializing in old documents and historical correspondence.
Keywords: old letter, handwritten correspondence, 39-45 war, letterhead, archival document, La Protectrice insurance, vintage letter, Second World War, old letter, WWII letter, period writing, Paris correspondence