Vesta Tilley Rotary Postcard 175H Bassano 1905 Portrait

Description

Vesta Tilley Rotary Postcard 175H Bassano 1905 Portrait

Refined early portrait of Vesta Tilley in theatrical costume, photographed by Bassano and published in the prestigious Rotary Photographic Series, postmarked 1905.

Measurements: approx. 3 1/2 x 5 3/8 inches
Dates: December 5, 1905
Condition: In decent vintage condition. Please inspect images for quality.
Internal notes: QC passed

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With a feathered hat and fur-trimmed mantle, Vesta Tilley presents herself with stately elegance — her expression calm, her posture composed. This early sepia postcard captures her at the height of her fame, a symbol of Edwardian performance culture, gender subversion, and stage sophistication.

Photographed by Bassano, one of the most acclaimed society portraitists of the era, and published by Rotary Photo, E.C., this real photographic postcard (No. 175 H) forms part of their elite portrait series of theatrical figures. Tilley, celebrated as Britain’s most successful male impersonator, captivated audiences through her compelling presence and progressive stage roles. The card is postmarked December 5, 1905, and carries a handwritten message to Gateshead — a poignant reminder of the personal, fan-based culture of early celebrity collecting.

These Rotary postcards hold tremendous cultural and visual value, documenting not only the personas of prominent performers but also the craftsmanship of early photographic artistry. This piece offers collectors a direct link to Edwardian theatre history, Bassano studio portraiture, and pre-WWI popular entertainment.

Categories:
ephemera, performers, postcards, theatre, vintage

Tags:
bassano, edwardian, gateshead, postcard, rotary, tilley, vesta, vintage

Focus Keyword:
vesta tilley rotary postcard

Suggested Internal Link Keywords:
vesta tilley, rotary photographic series, bassano portrait, edwardian theatre, theatrical ephemera