#victorian ephemera

[para-cera-therium]

Antique post card, artist unknown

[finleykitten]

when making the previous post i was like “i wonder what kinds of animals the London Zoo had in the 1890s” and i found this which i enjoyed

source

[resplendentoutfit]

A Night at the Opera, Part I

Victorian Etiquette as regards an invitation

As is well known about the Victorian era, people of high society lived by strick social rules.

A young man may invite a young woman to the theatre, opera, or other entertainment venue, even if he has but a slight acquaintance with her, but of course he should secure the permission of her parents or chaperone.

The young gent then is obliged to send her a written invitation no later than the day previous to the entertainment. It has to be written in the third person, upon white, high-quality note-paper, an envelope to match, and usually sealed with wax. The lady was required to reply immediately, so that should she be unable to accept, the gentleman could secure another escort.

Paul Cesar Helleu (French, 1859-1927) • The Letter • 1880

It is correct for the young man to inquire if the young woman prefers a box, or, if not, he should state in what part of the house he proposes to secure seats. This will enable her to determine how to dress.

Part II is here.

[bohemianwaif-blog]

[bohemianwaif-blog]

[bunny-realness]

baby jesus and the tabby cat tote bag