The past

The postcard derives from the German ‘Ansichts(post)karte’, or the picture postcard. The word even says it literally: it’s is a card with a view, that is a card with an image on the front.

The development of the picture postcard began in the twentieth century with permission from the United States’ government to print the word postcard on the reverse of the picture postcard, which at that time was not divided into two sections. The back of these original picture postcards was reserved entirely for the address. The message sent consisted of little more than an image because there was hardly any space to write anything.

 

Shortly after that many other countries started introducing a postcard with the back 'divided' into two: the address could be placed on the pre-printed dotted lines on the right, with room for a message on the left. The front was now exclusively reserved for the image. The picture postcard began its triumphal progress as a communication medium. 

Many picture postcards were sent during the holidays. To show those at home just how beautiful the holiday destination was. The cards were also sent to send greetings or good wishes, for example congratulations, Season’s or New Year’s greetings. 

A picture postcard often is a souvenir from ‘a different world’. Bought in the context of the location or attraction visited, it is a kind of a ‘summary image' of the holiday experience. The power and influence of the picture postcard lies in the fact that it is conveniently available, the low costs, huge variety of compositions and because it's possible to add short messages. Picture postcards can also help to decide what should be seen or visited.