Showcases a "Beautiful image of Notre-Dame and the Square of the Archbishop", capturing the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a symbol of French culture and endurance, set against the backdrop of Paris. This scene would have been a source of national pride and a reminder of what was being fought for.
Marked with "Paris en Flânant. Les éditions d'art Yvon. Paris 15, rue Martel. Reproduction interdite", indicating it's part of an art series by Yvon Editions, with a notice prohibiting reproduction, highlighting the artistic value of the card.
Message: A personal note from the front, dated and written as:
Stamps: Features two stamps: for 55 centimes+70 centimes, both dedicated "à la gloire de l'infanterie Française" ("to the glory of the French Infantry"), celebrating the valor of French soldiers.
Cultural Symbolism: Notre-Dame here serves not only as a landmark but as a symbol of French resilience and heritage, especially poignant during a time of national struggle.
The stamps and the postmark reflect the widespread practice of honoring military units, in this case, the infantry, through postal items, which also served as propaganda to boost morale and support for the war effort.
Special days or "Journées" like the one for infantry were common, aimed at raising funds, awareness, or simply honoring those serving at the front.
Notre-Dame Fire: Notre-Dame suffered a devastating fire in April 2019, which led to a massive reconstruction effort, culminating in its reopening in December 2024.
Historical Significance: Valuable for collectors of post WWI memorabilia, French history enthusiasts, or those interested in art and culture during wartime. It connects the viewer directly to the patriotic and cultural narratives of the era. Offers insights into how France rallied its citizens through art, symbols, and public events, the role of the infantry in WWI, and the intersection of war with cultural preservation.
Note: This post WWI postal card is more than just a piece of mail; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of France, capturing a moment where art, patriotism, and the daily life of Paris intersected with the global conflict.
