TRADE SAMPLE BOOK.. Victorian Calling and Greeting Card Sample Book.1900

 Small 8vo (175 x 135 mm), 28 pages containing 83 calling and greeting card samples with type examples pasted on to rear pastedown, apparently complete with a weak binding showing moderate to heavy wear and one tear to the back strip; pages toned, several leaves detached. Samples generally very good or better. A collection of Victorian calling and greeting card samples from an unknown stationer. Nearly all are embossed and many have prices printed on the samples. There are also numerous examples of die-cut overlays that one lifts to reveal what's underneath. The most common topic is love, with many Valentine-like cards showing cherubs, birds and flowers. Two cards are surrounding by silk ribbon. There is a wonderful "imp" business card substituting a graphic for the word "devil" in the phrase, "who the devil are you? " There's a masonic card, Easter cards and an interesting "Gold escort" card used by suitors to woo the ladies: two images on a gold background show a man and woman walking together with the words, "FAIR LADY: I send you this beautiful chromo with my compliments. If I may be the happy youth on the promenade please retain it. If I must suffer misery on the fence, be so good as to return it." If it was returned, did he use the same card again? A diverse, ornate and colourful example of the late 19th century stationer s art.