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This real photo postcard captures a traditional snake charmer performance in Colombo, the capital of Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka), during the British colonial period. The performer is shown seated cross-legged on the ground, playing a wind instrument, with a cobra rising from a basket in front of him. 

Snake charming was a well-known street performance in South Asia, particularly popular among tourists during the early 20th century as an exotic attraction in port cities like Colombo. The man wears a wrapped sarong-style garment and a fez-like cap, consistent with local dress in that era.

In the background, a crowd of onlookers—many in Western-style dress—suggests this may have taken place in a public market or port-adjacent tourist area. The style of clothing and photographic paper point to a production era of the 1920s–1930s, likely intended as a travel souvenir. Colombo was a major port of call on British Empire trade routes, and such scenes were frequently photographed for sale to visitors.

Card Protection All cards ship in protective penny sleeves. Items $8 and above include an additional rigid toploader for maximum protection.

For 'Buy It Now' Postcards Under $20 Your order will ship via USPS eBay Standard Envelope, with item(s) safely secured in a protective sleeve inside a semi-rigid envelope. For international orders, I use untracked international stamp service by default. If you prefer tracked shipping, please message me for additional options and pricing.

For 'Buy It Now' Postcards Over $20 Your order will ship via USPS Ground Advantage with full tracking. Item(s) will be securely packaged in a rigid toploader and protected in either a sturdy cardboard box or heavy-duty mailer. For international orders, shipping rates will be calculated based on destination.

For Auctions Default shipping methods are based on starting bid price. As a complimentary service to US buyers, I'll automatically upgrade shipping to USPS Ground Advantage if the final price exceeds $20 for auction items that began below that threshold.

About eBay Standard Envelope The eBay Standard Envelope service offers convenient tracked shipping through USPS, though tracking updates work differently than traditional packages. Your tracking may show "delivered" when the item reaches your local post office, rather than your mailbox. If you haven't received your item within 3 business days of the delivery notification, please contact me.

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