Bamforth 1913 Postcard You Are The Prettiest Thing I Know Girl Squirrel

Bamforth 1913 Postcard You Are The Prettiest Thing I Know

This exquisite 1913 postcard was produced by the renowned Bamforth & Co. Ltd, the famous English publishers based in Holmfirth, England, with distribution in New York. Known for their high-quality illustrated and photographic postcards that captured everyday life and emotions of the Edwardian era, Bamforth cards are highly sought after by collectors today for their artistic merit and historical significance. This particular example features the charming caption 'YOU ARE THE PRETTIEST THING I KNOW' and showcases a hand-tinted photograph of a young woman in a white dress interacting with a squirrel in a serene forest setting.

The brand's attention to detail is evident in the delicate rose garlands framing the oval image and the vibrant yet soft color palette that has retained much of its original appeal after more than a century. Bamforth postcards like this one were printed on quality card stock and often featured local or whimsical scenes that appealed to the masses sending mail in the early 1900s. Owning a genuine Bamforth piece connects you directly to the golden age of postcard sending when millions were exchanged daily.

Historical Context of Bamforth Production

Bamforth & Co. began producing postcards around 1904 and quickly became one of the leading publishers in the UK and US markets. Their cards often included imprints on the address side, as seen here with the clear 'BAMFORTH & CO. LTD PUBLISHERS (ENGLAND) AND NEW YORK' marking on the left edge. This authenticity mark assures collectors that they are acquiring an original from the company's catalog rather than a later reproduction. The 1-cent US postage stamp featuring George Washington further authenticates its American mailing history.

The front illustration reflects the romantic and nature-loving sentiments popular in 1913. The young lady's gentle expression and the attentive squirrel create a scene full of innocence and charm that Bamforth artists excelled at capturing. Such cards were not just mail but keepsakes, often saved in albums by recipients.

The Personal Message on the Reverse

Turning the card over reveals a personal handwritten message from Laura to her sister, Mrs. Charley Beish of Sylutsville, Pennsylvania. Postmarked October 21, 1913, from Wapwallopen, Pennsylvania, Laura writes about trying to decide on plans for Sunday and inquires if all are well. This glimpse into early 20th-century family communication adds immense value and storytelling to the piece. The divided back design, standard by 1913, allowed for both message and address, a format Bamforth helped popularize.

Condition Details

This Bamforth postcard is in used but very good condition for its 113 years. The paper remains sturdy with no tears or missing pieces. Visible characteristics include minor age toning and browning on the reverse side, light edge wear with slightly rounded corners, a small dark spot on the front near the top of the oval frame, and minor ink smudges near the postmark area. The illustration and caption remain vibrant, and the handwriting is fully legible. These signs of age enhance its authenticity without detracting from its visual appeal.

Dimensions and Materials

Measuring the standard postcard size of approximately 5.5 inches wide by 3.5 inches tall, this piece is made from thick period-appropriate card stock paper typical of Bamforth productions. The hand-tinting process involved artists applying watercolor-like colors by hand to black and white photographs, resulting in the soft, dreamlike quality seen in the forest scene and the girl's attire.

Collectors of Bamforth postcards appreciate the consistent quality and the wide range of themes from humorous to sentimental that the company offered. This example stands out for its sweet animal interaction and romantic caption, making it a standout in any collection of early 20th-century ephemera.

Whether you are building a specialized Bamforth archive or seeking a single beautiful example of 1913 American postal history, this postcard delivers on every level. The combination of publisher prestige, personal correspondence, and endearing imagery creates a multi-layered artifact that continues to captivate viewers today.

 _gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))

Item specifics

From The Spiderpunk Web collection of authentic antiques and collectibles. Ships from the United States with tracking.