Shows "Two Soldiers inside of a church," specifically at "Sainte Genevieve (M et M)", with visible damage from German shelling. The caption details "effets des obus allemands dans la voûte du chœur, dans le pavé et des bancs de la nef (6,7 et 8 Septembre 1914)" ("effects of German shells in the vault of the choir, in the paving and the benches of the nave from September 6, 7, and 8, 1914"). This image serves as a stark reminder of the war's reach into sacred places.
Handwritten Note: "Jean Goubiert 24 November 1914," identifying of the sender.
Handwritten Message: Dated "Milleray le 24 Novembre 14," the message reads: "Monsieur le Curé, J'ai pensé que vous seriez content de posséder les deux cartes que voici et qui seraient une preuve de plus et ajoutée à tant d'autres de la barbarie de nos ennemis, et je pense aussi que vous seriez bien ennuyé si vous voyiez notre chère église de Combrand dans cet état. Et je vous assure qu'elle n'est que l'image de ce qu'est le pauvre bourg."
Translation: "Mister Priest, I thought you would be pleased to have these two cards, which would serve as additional proof of our enemies' barbarity, and I also think you would be quite upset if you saw our dear church of Combrand in this state. And I assure you, it's just an image of what the poor town has become."
Address: "Monsieur Jean Vende, curé de Combrand par Cerizay, Deux-Sèvres," indicating it was sent to a priest in Combrand, highlighting the personal connection and the shared grief over the destruction.
This card captures the devastation of war on cultural and religious landmarks, used here not only to document the damage but also to convey the emotional impact on those connected to these places.
Condition: Shows signs of age like fading, wear, or minor damage from handling or storage.
Historical Significance: A poignant piece for collectors of WWI memorabilia, focusing on the war's cultural destruction, French history, or the personal narratives from the front. It's a direct testament to the impact of war on civilian life and morale.
Useful for discussions on the effects of warfare on heritage, the moral and emotional aspects of the conflict, and the role of photography in documenting history.
Note: This WWI postal card not only conveys the physical destruction of war but also the emotional devastation felt by individuals and communities, making it a profound artifact of historical and personal significance.
