Some postcards feel like miniature theatre scenes, and this 1908 Alterocca postcard is a perfect example. Hand‑tinted and full of character, it captures a gentle moment between a clown in bright costume and a young girl seated opposite him, as if the two are sharing a quiet conversation.
About Alterocca of Terni
The Italian publisher Alterocca was known for its richly coloured, lightly sentimental postcards during the early 20th century. Their cards often featured staged studio scenes with actors or models, carefully posed and then hand‑coloured to create a soft, painterly effect.
This postcard fits that style beautifully, theatrical, expressive, and full of early colour charm.
The Scene on the Front
The clown sits on a wooden stepladder, dressed in a red and green costume with a crisp white ruff and a small hat. Opposite him, the young girl sits on a wooden chair, her lace‑trimmed dress and floral headpiece adding a delicate contrast. Their interaction feels gentle and expressive, capturing the theatrical studio style typical of early 20th‑century hand‑tinted postcards.
The Message on the Back
The postcard was sent from France in 1908, though the exact town name on the postmark is unclear, addressed to Madame Girard in Miramas. The message on the back is personal and family‑focused, giving a glimpse into everyday life in 1908.
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Collecting Alterocca Postcards
Alterocca postcards remain popular among collectors, especially those featuring:
- Hand‑tinted theatrical scenes
- Clowns and performers
- Early 1900s studio portraits
Their distinctive colouring and expressive compositions make them easy to recognise and enjoyable to collect.
Value
For a 1908 Alterocca hand‑tinted postcard in good condition, the typical UK value is:
£6–£7
Clown‑themed cards often sit at the higher end of this range.
