One Of A Few Things That I Have Been Collecting ..
Or one of many if you ask my wife, are vintage artistic postcards. I stumble accross them here and there throughout my travels. If one speaks to me or interests me, I purchase it. This particular post card is from 1942, by artist Antonio Collino. He is not a very well known artist and there is little to be found on him as far as biographical data goes. Its so frustrating when you can not locate any decent information on an artist, or his work for that matter. Granted, I could spend a little more time researching these things. Eventually, after spending an hour or so browsing the web, I give in; It's just not that important I suppose. The real importance is that I love the piece and will respect the artists time and effort. Who knows, maybe one day I will find out more about him.
The Postcard ..
It depicts four young children pushing a sled, loaded with presents, through the snow. They all seem to be about the same age. What I love about this postcard/art work, is that the colors are still very vibrant and post off the paper. I love that these children posses a childhood innocents that I wish I had back. I love the way they are all smiling and have rosy red cheeks. Christmas has arrived and they are embracing the season of giving and thanks. Little hints of glitter reflect as a new fallen snow would have. I would like to imagine that these children are going home to home, giving to the less fortunate. At least that is the story that I play out in my mind.
The Backside Of The Postcard ..
It seems that there is a greeting written in English. "Italy, Seasons Greetings to all of you." then signed Virginia. Looks like Virginia brought back the card from Italy (possibly), instead of mailing it. The cool thing is that there is something there. I always like to see that someone else enjoyed the art and decided to gift it along. Any correspondence is interesting to me, regardless of how simple it is. The paper has yellowed over the last 78 years or so, and smells a bit musty.. go figure.
I'll Hang On To It ..
For a while, or until it no longer gives me any pleasure when I admire it. I was thinking about framing it and placing it out every Christmas season. I think I will do just that!
The Phrase Buon Natale ..
Found on the front of the postcard, reminds me of a song I know by Nat King Cole. It's not a very popular song, but one I was introduced to from a Italian themed Christmas CD. The CD has since been scratched and broken, so I no longer own it. Even so, I included a video a little further down, if your interested in hearing it sung. Below are the lyrics, short but sweet :-)
Lyrics
Buon Natale means Merry Christmas to you
Buon Natale to everyone
Happy New Year and lots of fun
Buon Natale--may all your wishes come true
Buon Natale in Italy means
A Merry Christmas to you
Far away across the sea
In sunny Italy
There's a quaint little town
Not a clock has been wound
For over a century
They don't know the time or year
And no one seems to care
And this is the reason
The Christmas season
Is celebrated all year
Buon Natale means Merry Christmas to you
Buon Natale to everyone
Happy New Year and lots of fun
Buon Natale--may all your wishes come true
Buon Natale in Italy means
A Merry Christmas to you
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Bob Saffer / Frank Linale
Buon Natale (Merry Christmas to You) lyrics 漏 Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC