This 1912 antique silver gelatin real photo postcard features “The Snake Woman” by the acclaimed French sculptor Félix Charpentier. Charpentier, born in 1858, was renowned for his ability to capture the human form with both grace and dynamism. His works often explored themes of mythology and allegory, and “La Femme au Serpant” is a prime example of his talent. This piece, depicting a woman intertwined with a snake, showcases Charpentier’s skill in blending sensuality with a sense of mystery.
The postcard originates from the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, a historic art museum in France. Established at the beginning of the 19th century under Napoleon’s instructions, the museum houses an impressive collection of fine arts, modern art, and antiquities. This postcard not only represents a beautiful piece of art but also a piece of history from one of France’s most esteemed museums.