This is a genuine piece of early 20th-century Texas pharmaceutical history. Distributed as a promotional "compliment" by Quality Drug located at 215 Main Street in Hereford, Texas, this hand-held fan features the iconic Art Nouveau "Butterfly Woman" graphics used by the Monroe Chemical Company to market their Putnam Fadeless Dyes.
These fans were essential functional items in Texas drugstores before the era of modern air conditioning. The front displays vibrant lithography with the classic "Butterfly Fairy" motif, while the reverse features extensive advertising for Putnam products, including "Fadeless Dyes," "Dry-Cleaner," and "Tint with Putnam".
As a seller who prioritizes professional reputation and forensic accuracy, I have detailed the specific wear on this vintage item below.
Front Graphics: The Art Nouveau lithography remains bright and visually striking,
Staining: There is a significant, permanent moisture or "grease" stain located in the bottom left corner of the fan, visible on both the front and back
Structural Integrity: The fan has two prominent horizontal creases where the paper has previously bent.
Repairs: There is clear tape residue and reinforcement on the reverse side which was likely added by a previous owner to stabilize