WW1 French Postcard 1916 – La Meije & Barre des Écrins – Handwritten Field Message

Product Description

A genuine First World War-era French postcard, written and dated Wednesday, April 7, 1916, during the height of the war.

The front features a striking alpine scene from the Dauphiné region: La Meije and La Barre des Écrins (4103 m), captured from the Grand Aréa. The image shows a group of climbers or soldiers standing along a dramatic mountain ridge, offering a powerful sense of scale and isolation.

On the reverse, the card contains a handwritten message in French, written in green ink. The sender reassures a friend of his good health and expresses hope that the recipient is doing well—typical of wartime correspondence, where maintaining morale and connection was essential.

Historic Background

This postcard shows La Meije and the Barre des Écrins, two iconic peaks in the French Alps known for early mountaineering. The figures on the ridge likely represent climbers, reflecting the popularity of alpinism before the war.

Dated 1916, during the World War I, the image contrasts sharply with the conflict elsewhere in France—offering a reminder of natural beauty and normal life during wartime.

CONDITION

• Original period postcard (not a reproduction)

• Postally used: Yes 

• Writing on backside: Yes

• Stamp present: No

• Corners: Edge wear

• Surface: Minor marks

Please see photos for detailed condition.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Country: France

• Year: 1916

• Publisher unknown

• Type: Printed lithograph

• Dimensions: Approx. 14x9cm

• Era: First World War

SHIPPING

• Carefully packed in protective sleeve

Combined shipping available