Discover a unique piece of early 20th-century humor with this captivating vintage postcard, featuring the distinctive artistry of Cobb X Shinn. The card presents a comical 'SAFETY FIRST!' scene, depicting a bewildered man trapped in a storm drain, complete with a gushing waterfall and his exaggerated cry of 'Hic! First!'. In the distance, a small figure with an umbrella makes a hasty retreat from a lightning strike, adding to the whimsical chaos. This illustration, characteristic of the era's lighthearted cartooning, offers a glimpse into the popular culture and comedic sensibilities of its time.
Published by G. C. Mather, courtesy of Essanay, a prominent film studio of the silent era, this postcard not only showcases a charming piece of art but also hints at connections to early cinema and vaudeville. The 'PLACE STAMP HERE' box on the divided back, with its 'DOMESTIC ONE CENT FOREIGN TWO CENTS' postage rates, firmly places its origin in the 1907-1917 period. A delightful collectible for enthusiasts of vintage humor, early American illustration, or those with an appreciation for historical ephemera, this card embodies a bygone era's charm and wit.