1904 Chateau de Mesnieres-en-Bray Salon Normandy France Postcard

About This Postcard

This elegant interior view showcases the Salon of the Four Drums (Le Salon des Quatre-Tambours) within the magnificent Chateau de Mesnieres-en-Bray in Normandy, France. A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, this room is famous for its unique ceiling and ornate wood paneling. The "four drums" refer to the distinctive architectural elements at the corners of the ceiling, which are decorated with fine carvings. The view captures the refined atmosphere of the French aristocracy, showing the large framed paintings, intricate fireplace mantel, and period furniture that once filled this historic residence. Built in the 16th century, the chateau is celebrated as one of the finest examples of the Renaissance style in northern France.

Details

Era: Divided Back (1904–1915)
City: Mesnieres-en-Bray
State or Region: Seine-Maritime, Normandy
Country: France
Topic: Chateau de Mesnieres, French Renaissance Interiors, Salon des Quatre-Tambours, Historic Castles, Normandy Landmarks
Condition: Circulated
Postage: None
Address Side: divided back
Orientation: Vertical (Portrait)
Artist / Photographer: Unknown
Publisher: Imp. E. Le Deley, Paris
Printer: E. Le Deley
Print Type: Collotype

Additional Information

The manufacturing date for this card is narrowed to 1904–1915, based on the specific template used by the prominent Parisian printer E. Le Deley. While the card was never mailed through the post office, it bears a fascinating handwritten message dated December 28, 1916. The sender, writing to "Mon cher Léon," describes the quiet atmosphere at a school that has closed, mentioning that most "poilus" (French WWI soldiers) are on leave while a few remain on duty. This card serves as a poignant historical record, capturing the original Renaissance interior of the chateau, much of which was destroyed in a 2004 fire, while also preserving a personal moment from the height of the Great War.

Love it ♡
Get it ☆
Get Lucky 💋 Vintage