Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Antique Halloween Postcard: Apple Bobbing

Here's a favorite from my collection of antique Halloween postcards. Circa 1906, it features wonderfully expressive apple characters plunging themselves gleefully into a tub, ready to take part in the classic party game of bobbing for apples.


On closer inspection, the apples' expressions become clear: those waiting for their turn to jump in the water look expectantly happy, while those already in the water appear distraught, only now fully comprehending their plight. In the background, a sinister jack o' lantern urges the hapless apples on.

"Wheeee! We get to go swimming!"

"Oh no! What have we done?!"
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3 comments:

  1. LizzieWednesday, October 09, 2013

    Love it! All those vivid reds and oranges against the black give it an underworld look.

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  2. TamWednesday, October 09, 2013

    Isn't it amazing the gruesome stuff that passed for joyful celebrating back then?

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  3. The Inspired TraderMonday, October 14, 2013

    I'm sure there had to be a lesson here; perhaps it was to "look before you leap". Or the all time favorite, "If all your friends were jumping off a cliff...". What great fun this postcard is! Thanks for sharing.

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