What is it about paper? Since high school, I have wandered through flea-markets, estate sales and now Ebay, collecting postcards, gum wrappers, motel soap wrappers, movie posters, maps, newspaper clippings, old scrapbooks, old photos, funny LP covers- the list goes on and on. As I have the opportunity, I will be sharing some of these things with you in the coming weeks.
A couple of years ago I came across the website by Fr. François Fénelon of 19th century holy cards. These images were a surprise to me. I was familiar with 20th century cards, but these delicate 19th century paper engravings had a special appeal. I have returned to his website many times, appreciating the design and delicacy of the cut and embossed paper, but also attracted by the sweet and simple piety reflected in the images and text. I did not grow up in the Catholic church, and holy cards have never been a part of my everyday faith. Much of my interest in them is like that of an art historian. I recognize the traditional Christian iconography of doves, hearts, chalices, thorns and think of their relationship to scripture as well as hundreds of years of Christian art. But some of my response is connecting with those with whom I share a faith, fellow believers who lived miles and years away from a small town in East Texas.
I’ve attached a few examples of these cards below. Be sure to click on them to view them to scale.
Then click here to go to Fr. François Fénelon’s website called Holy Card Heaven.
Faithful Guardian I will draw all to myself by the watchful care of my kindness.
Close the door of all your senses by deep meditation and live, my daughter, in this place as if there was nothing but God.
Handpainted 18th cent. Belgium
Ecce Homo (Behold the man)
Thought to be Fillipino. Handpainted on the reverse of another card.
All hearts are drawn to Him.
Jesus always your hand is open to give to bless and pardon.
To repose on your heart, O Jesus, is all my happiness.
I am the conqueror of hearts.
Bambino with birds hand cut and ornamented 1800s France.
The Good Shepherd leads his flock and carries the lamb too weak to walk.
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