The Fascinating History of American Art Postcard Companies
Postcards, those delightful pieces of art on paper, have played a key role in shaping American visual culture for more than a century. Beyond their original function as a way to send short messages, postcards have become miniature works of art, cultural artifacts, and collectors’ items. American art postcard companies emerged as both producers of these small masterpieces and curators of the nation’s evolving artistic trends. In this article, we will explore the history of American art postcard companies, from their humble beginnings to their lasting impact on the art world.
Early Days: The Birth of the Postcard
The history of postcards in the United States dates back to the late 19th century. The first government-issued postcards were introduced in 1873 by the United States Postal Service (USPS). These early postcards were plain, without illustrations, and were mainly used for business or official correspondence. However, the potential of the postcard as a vehicle for art and communication was quickly recognized, and private companies soon began producing their own versions with colorful illustrations.
One of the first private companies to embrace the postcard industry was the Detroit Publishing Company, which started producing illustrated postcards in the early 1890s. Detroit Publishing became one of the most influential postcard companies in America, known for its lithographic process that allowed for the production of high-quality, vibrant images. These early postcards depicted everything from American landmarks to landscapes, capturing the country’s growing sense of identity.
The Golden Age of Postcards: 1900–1915
The period between 1900 and 1915 is often referred to as the “Golden Age of Postcards.” During this time, postcards were incredibly popular in the United States, and numerous companies began to emerge, producing millions of postcards each year. The rise of American art postcard companies was fueled by several factors, including improvements in printing technology, increased postal efficiency, and the desire for affordable art.
Major players in the postcard industry during this era included Curt Teich & Co., Raphael Tuck & Sons, and the Rotograph Company. Curt Teich, a German immigrant, founded Curt Teich & Co. in 1898, which went on to become one of the most prominent American postcard companies. Teich’s innovative “linen card” process, introduced in the 1930s, gave postcards a distinctive textured appearance and allowed for brighter colors. His company is best known for producing “Greetings From” postcards, which showcased various American cities and states in bold, colorful designs.
Raphael Tuck & Sons, originally a British company, established a strong presence in the U.S. and became renowned for their detailed and artistic postcards. Their series often featured Victorian-era illustrations, holiday themes, and scenic views, making their cards highly collectible. The Rotograph Company, based in New York City, specialized in photochrom postcards that captured iconic images of New York’s landmarks and daily life.
Postcards as Art: The Rise of Illustration
As the popularity of postcards continued to grow, many companies began collaborating with artists to create original illustrations. The early 20th century saw a rise in “artist-signed” postcards, where individual illustrators gained recognition for their work. Some of the most famous American artists to contribute to the postcard industry included Ellen Hattie Clapsaddle, Samuel L. Schmucker, and Charles Twelvetrees.
Ellen Clapsaddle, known for her charming and whimsical depictions of children, was one of the most prolific postcard artists of the time. Her holiday-themed postcards, particularly those for Halloween and Christmas, remain highly sought after by collectors today. Samuel Schmucker, another influential postcard artist, was known for his Art Nouveau-inspired designs, often featuring elegant women and nature motifs. Charles Twelvetrees gained popularity for his humorous illustrations of children, which resonated with a wide audience.
The collaboration between artists and postcard companies elevated the postcard from a simple means of communication to a form of mass-produced art. Collectors began to view postcards as valuable keepsakes, and many people started compiling postcard albums to display their collections.
Decline and Resurgence: Post-World War II Era
The postcard industry faced a decline in the years following World War I. Several factors contributed to this downturn, including the advent of new communication technologies such as the telephone and the rise of alternative forms of entertainment like cinema and radio. The Great Depression further dampened demand for postcards, as Americans had less disposable income for such non-essential items.
However, the American art postcard industry experienced a resurgence in the post-World War II era. This period saw the rise of “chrome” postcards, which were printed on glossy paper using a new photographic process that allowed for more vibrant and realistic images. Companies like Curt Teich & Co. adapted to this new technology and continued to thrive. Chrome postcards became synonymous with mid-century Americana, capturing everything from roadside diners and motels to national parks and city skylines.
The 1950s and 1960s were a particularly fruitful time for American art postcard companies, as the country experienced an economic boom and a renewed interest in travel. Postcards became popular souvenirs, and many families sent them home to share their experiences from vacations across the country.
The Modern Era: Postcards in the Digital Age
As the digital age dawned in the late 20th century, many predicted that postcards would become obsolete. The rise of email, social media, and instant messaging seemed to spell the end for physical postcards. However, American art postcard companies have proven remarkably resilient.
Today, postcards have found new life as collectibles, art pieces, and nostalgic souvenirs. Modern companies such as Modern Postcard and Zazzle continue to produce art postcards, often catering to niche markets and collectors. The rise of online marketplaces has also made it easier for collectors to buy and sell vintage postcards, further fueling interest in the hobby.
Many contemporary artists have embraced the postcard format, using it as a medium for their work. In some cases, postcards have even become a form of political or social commentary, with artists using the medium to address issues such as climate change, immigration, and inequality.
FAQs: All About American Art Postcards
1. Why were postcards so popular in the early 1900s?
In the early 1900s, postcards were a cheap and accessible way to send quick messages. They were also visually appealing, thanks to advances in printing technology. People loved collecting them, especially those featuring famous landmarks, art, or special events.
2. What are “linen” postcards, and why are they unique?
Linen postcards, introduced by Curt Teich & Co. in the 1930s, have a textured surface that resembles fabric. This texture allowed for brighter, more durable images and became a hallmark of postcards produced in the mid-20th century.
3. Who are some famous American postcard artists?
Ellen Hattie Clapsaddle, Samuel L. Schmucker, and Charles Twelvetrees are a few of the most famous American postcard artists. Their artwork added charm, humor, and elegance to postcards, making them both artistic and collectible.
4. Do people still collect postcards today?
Yes! Postcard collecting, also known as deltiology, is still popular today. Vintage postcards, especially those from the Golden Age (1900–1915) or featuring famous artists, can be quite valuable. Online marketplaces have made it easier to find and buy rare postcards.
5. Are postcards still being produced?
Absolutely! While postcards aren’t as widely used for communication as they once were, many companies still produce them as souvenirs, artwork, or promotional items. Modern designs often reflect contemporary themes or artistic styles, keeping postcards relevant in today’s digital world.
Postcards remain a fascinating slice of Americana, offering insight into the art, culture, and history of the United States. From their humble beginnings as plain communication tools to their transformation into beautiful works of art, postcards continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.