D. F. Briggs Company

Context: Main Image: The postcard features a promotional image of a woman known as “Carmen Girl,” showcasing a chemigraph bas-relief reproduction by the D. F. Briggs Company, highlighting their product offering.

Details: Foreground:

• The “Carmen Girl” is portrayed in a formal attire with a large hat adorned with feathers, smiling and looking directly at the camera. Her gloved hands rest gracefully on a surface in front of her.
• The image is bordered by a decorative stitch pattern, giving it a refined and elegant appearance.

Text:

• Below the image, the text reads: “We are having made for us a chemigraph Bas-Relief reproduction of our famous ‘Carmen Girl’ (size of picture 10 1/4″ x 8″) on 13″ x 16″ black mat.”
• The promotional message continues: “If you are willing to give one of these pictures a prominent position in your store or show window we will send one at your request, free of expense.”
• The company name and product information are prominently displayed: “D. F. BRIGGS COMPANY Sole Manufacturers of CARMEN ADJUSTABLE BRACELET ATTLEBORO, MASS.”

Condition:

• The postcard is in good condition, with clear and legible text.
• The black and white image of the “Carmen Girl” is sharp, with distinct details highlighting the craftsmanship of the chemigraph bas-relief reproduction.

Interpretation: Historical Context:

• The postcard is a marketing tool used by the D. F. Briggs Company to promote their adjustable bracelet, leveraging the image of the “Carmen Girl” as a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
• The use of chemigraph bas-relief technology indicates a period when such printing techniques were popular for creating detailed and durable images.

Cultural Importance:

• The “Carmen Girl” serves as an icon for the company, embodying the fashionable and refined image that the D. F. Briggs Company aimed to associate with their products.
• The promotional strategy of offering free pictures to store owners suggests an effort to increase visibility and attract customers through visually appealing displays.

Artistic Elements:

• The portrait of the “Carmen Girl” is artistically presented with attention to detail in her attire and expression, enhancing the overall appeal of the promotional material.
• The combination of the image and text is designed to catch the eye and convey the message effectively, using a blend of visual and written elements.

Overall Impression:

• This postcard effectively captures the marketing strategy of the D. F. Briggs Company, showcasing their product in a visually appealing and persuasive manner.
• The image of the “Carmen Girl” serves as a focal point, drawing attention to the promotional offer and the company’s dedication to quality and elegance in their products.
• The postcard is a valuable piece of historical documentation, illustrating early 20th-century marketing techniques and the cultural significance of promotional imagery in the jewelry industry.

Additional Details: [1908 1c Benjamin Franklin, green, perforated, type I]