Thursday, April 24, 2008

Ephemera ~ What is it? Vintage Postcards, Letters, Calling Cards...PLUS Giveaway Has 1 Week Left!



Everyday we probably use all kinds of paper items that get tossed in the trash. Some people save these printed pieces for either sentimental reasons, or for financial records, or for family history.


How many of you save the greeting cards sent by family and friends? And if you save them, for what purpose? I save Christmas cards for several years and then after awhile, make them into cute and fun gift tags to use on next year's packages. But, this would mean the cards were no longer in their original condition.


So this is what leads me to today's post. Ephemera. That is what this paper stuff is called and the much older pieces are highly collectible today. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, the term ephemera means "the printed matter of passing interest." Or dictionary.com puts it like this: "items designed to be useful or important for only a short time, esp. pamphlets, notices, tickets, etc."


Luckily some people decided to save some of their paper items. Really collectible items are things like a Civil War document, a letter signed by a famous person, or a deed to a famous piece of real estate.


My favorites are vintage postcards, letters, old photos, wedding invitations, marriage certificates, calling cards, etc. Some of the beautiful images are still vibrant and stunning to this day.



We've added an "Ephemera" category to Bella Rosa Antiques with some lovely vintage rose items. We'll be adding more in the future so check back if you love pretty paper things!
There's just ONE WEEK left 'til a winner is chosen in our May 1st GRAND OPENING Giveaway! For more details on how to win a $15.00 voucher towards merchandise/shipping click here.



8 comments:

Anonymous said...

I've dedicated a whole blog to ephemera. Exploring the world of old paper is something I've been doing for several years, and you might find it of interest considering your post.

Liz Harrell said...

Wow. Those are gorgeous. I always save my birthday cards, I have every one I've ever been given. It is the one truly 'pack-rat' trait I have! :)

Jillian's Bella Rosa Antiques said...

Hi Marytweil! I'd love to check out your blog to read more on what you have to say about ephemera...but the link to your blog is not working...

Jillian

oliver rain said...

I used to keep all my old cards but it just got to be too much. I love reading them though, even when they belonged to someone else.

oliver rain said...

Thanks for the kind words. Not sure why I shut the comments off on that post. It was pretty personal and I wasn't sure how people would respond I guess.

Anonymous said...

I am really enjoying your background history "lessons" on these vintage finds. I had no idea about the collar boxes or the ephemera except that I am quite a keeper of cards and letters myself! See ya Sista!

Betty said...

Jillian,
I am one of those sentimental people who keeps cards, notes, newspaper articles, etc. I appreciate things handed down to me....hopefully my grandchildren will.....

Thanks for visiting with me...Betty

Anonymous said...

Those are so beautiful!!! Can't wait to check the shop out for them.....