I recently added a charming vintage postcard to my collection, and it’s a delightful snapshot of Irish culture and personal connection. Postcards like this are more than just images; they are tangible pieces of history, carrying the weight of a moment in time and a voice from the past.
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| Traditional Irish Harpist by an Irish Cottage. |
The Image: A Taste of Traditional Ireland
The front of the postcard features a beautifully composed image titled, "Traditional Irish Harpist by an Irish Cottage."
A woman with striking red hair is seated outside a traditional white-washed cottage with a thatched roof.
She is elegantly dressed in what appears to be a red dress or skirt and a dark shawl, contrasting beautifully with the bright gold and wood of her Irish harp.
The cottage, with its simple door and small window, is surrounded by flourishing greenery and flowers, evoking a sense of tranquil, rural life.
The Irish harp is a powerful symbol of Ireland—it is even the national emblem—and this image perfectly captures the spirit of traditional Irish music and heritage.
The Message: "Had a lovely time here in Ireland"
Flipping the card over reveals a handwritten message and the details of its journey. The sender clearly had a wonderful trip:
"Had a lovely time here in Ireland. Weather really lovely. I enjoyed the sea air + was enjoyable. It is a lovely country. All news when I see you next week. Home on Sunday. I hope you all come [to visit] soon. Love, All [the best]."
The message is addressed to Mr. Bennett at an address in Blackheath, London, England.
🏷️ Postcard Details
Publisher: Published by Cardall Ltd., Dublin. Printed in the Republic of Ireland.
Postmark: The postmark appears to read "CARRAIG..." (possibly Carrick-on-Shannon or a similar Irish location) and the date is visible as '71, likely indicating the year 1971.
Stamp: A lovely Irish stamp featuring a Celtic design and the word "ÉIRE."
Why I Love This Piece
This postcard is a wonderful find because it ties together several themes: the romanticism of traditional Irish life, the enduring power of music and national symbols, and the simple, human act of sharing a travel experience with a loved one. It makes you wonder about the sender, their holiday in Ireland, and the life of Mr. Bennett in London.
