Photograph: Labeled "INCONNU 318 LL.", showcasing "Marie Thérèse Louise de Savoie - Carignan, Princesse de Lambale" from the "Musée De Versailles".
Marked as "Carte postale" for correspondence.
Message: Dated "Versailles 21 Octobre 1915", the sender writes:
"Ma bonne petite mère chérie. Le Vaguemestre ne m'a encore rien remis aujourd'hui. Je commence à être très inquiet, car il est rare que je sois deux jours sans nouvelles. J'attends, avec impatience, une bonne lettre. Comment es-tu avec ce mauvais temps. Brumeux, ici voilà plusieurs jours que nous avons du brouillard épais et froid. Je prends toutes les précautions possibles pour ne pas m'enrhumer, car la température actuelle est des plus malsaines. Je suis toujours très bien. Mes respects à Mme Regnier: Amitié à Jacques. Reçois bonne petite mère chérie mille baisers bien affectueux de ton grand fils qui t'aime. Bien tendrement. J. Didier"
Translation: "My dear little mother. The postmaster hasn't given me anything today. I'm starting to get very worried, as it's rare for me to go two days without news. I'm eagerly waiting for a good letter. How are you with this bad weather? Here, we've had thick, cold fog for several days. I'm taking all possible precautions not to catch a cold, as the current temperature is very unhealthy. I am always very well. My respects to Mrs. Regnier: Friendship to Jacques. Receive, dear little mother, a thousand affectionate kisses from your big son who loves you dearly. J. Didier"
Address:
"Madame L. Compain, 2 Rue Giraqueau, Fontenay-le-Comte (Vendée)"
Additional Note: On the right side reverse, "Je t'envoie un article sur les hommes politiques de Turquie qui est assez intéressant" ("I'm sending you an article on Turkish politicians that is quite interesting").
Bottom: Provides the name of the historical figure in multiple languages, reinforcing her identity: "Maria Theresia Luise von Savoyen-Carignan, Prinzessin von Lambale-Mary-Theresa-Louisa of Savoy-Carignan of Lambale".
This card not only conveys personal news and affection during WWI but also uses historical imagery to maintain cultural connections, reflecting the use of such figures to evoke national pride or nostalgia. The mention of Turkish politics adds a layer of wartime international interest.
Condition: Given its age, the card shows signs of wear, including fading, creases, or postal marks from its journey through wartime postal services.
Historical Significance: An invaluable piece for collectors of WWI memorabilia, French history, or those interested in the personal narratives of soldiers and their use of historical figures in correspondence. Highlights the intertwining of personal lives with broader historical and cultural contexts, offering insights into communication practices, social history, and the emotional landscape of wartime.
Note: This WWI postal card serves as a poignant reminder of the human experience during the Great War, where even in the midst of conflict, individuals held onto their cultural heritage, shared news from afar, and maintained intimate family bonds. It's a piece of history that weaves together personal stories with the grand narratives of war and culture.
