1890s Lithographed Trade Cards for Singer Sewing Machines Are Surprisingly Gorgeous

Trade cards in the 19th century got a whole lot more exciting when color lithography meant that eye-catching reproductions of art could be easily transferred onto a nearly infinite number of trade cards for distribution. Collected back then as now, trade cards give us a peek into the world of the Victorian era. Some Victorians even made scrapbooks of interesting or particularly beautiful trade cards. Looking at these charming images, it’s easy to see why!

For anyone who loves vintage advertising art, its always interesting to see these old cards. But, to see such faithful representations of peoples from abound the world is truly unique for the Victorian era, a time when advertisements could claim nearly anything or poke fun of any group.

For some great vintage advertising art for beauty products click here.