This charming 1956 handmade papoose doll postcard is a rare example of midcentury folk art and novelty mail, combining true postal history with Western Americana cultural imagery. The small doll is crafted with painted features, black hair, a yellow headband, and plaid fabric wrapping, tied directly to the postcard exactly as it traveled through the mail. Postmarked in Salinas, California, it represents a 1940s–1950s trend of sending playful papoose‑themed greetings—items inspired by Native American imagery but not Native-made. Today these mailed folk-art novelties appeal to collectors of postal oddities, mail art, Western Americana, and vintage Native American–themed ephemera. A delightful survivor with authentic 1950s character and regional California history.
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Returns accepted within 30 days; item must be returned in the same condition for a refund of the purchase price.
Photo props are not included unless stated.
Local pickup available in Santa Clara, CA.
Vintage items are 20+ years old and may show light age‑appropriate wear; any major flaws are always noted.