A Radio Postcard Journey - 53

A fascinating piece of art, depicting a whimsical steampunk-inspired radio record player, is currently garnering attention among art enthusiasts and collectors. The intricate design, brought to life by the talented artist Melkozerova Elizayeta, showcases a unique blend of Victorian-era aesthetics and industrial fantasy.

The artwork portrays a fantastical device adorned with gears, pipes emitting puffs of steam, and various dials and gauges, all meticulously rendered with a keen eye for detail. The words "Steampunk Record Player" are elegantly inscribed on the top of the imagined machine, further emphasizing its imaginative nature. A separate label at the bottom simply reads "Steampunk," anchoring the artwork in the popular genre.

This captivating piece was originally printed in the culturally rich city of Saint Petersburg in 2020. The printing process, executed with evident care, has preserved the delicate nuances of Elizayeta's artistry.

The postcard featuring this artwork is being marketed by My Magic Card, a company known for its curated selection of unique and artistic stationery. Their decision to feature this "Steampunk Record Player" suggests a recognition of the growing appreciation for imaginative and visually striking art pieces.

While the postcard format makes this artwork accessible to a wider audience, the intricate detail and imaginative concept are sure to appeal to those who appreciate the artistry and creativity inherent in the steampunk genre. 

Whether displayed as a miniature work of art or sent as a unique greeting, this postcard offers a glimpse into a world where technology and fantasy intertwine. Collectors and fans of steampunk art may find this printed piece a delightful addition to their collections, a testament to the enduring allure of imaginative design.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 52

German Postcard Depicts Sheep's SOS Message. A radio-themed postcard sent from Germany on March 9, 2020, has surfaced, featuring a cartoon sheep wearing headphones and operating a radio. The radio displays the international distress signal "S.O.S." The postcard also includes the German phrase "Mählde Dich mal!" which translates to "Get in touch!" or "Call me!". The sender is identified as Nicole. The meaning of the image and the message together suggests a playful call for communication, perhaps with a humorous twist given the sheep character. Copyright by R. Brockhaus Verlag Wuppertal, with design by Werner Tiki Küstenmacher.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 51

A unique postcard showcasing handcrafted Bluetooth stereos has arrived from across the globe, sent by Rosanne from the USA on May 9th, 2024. The eye-catching mailer serves as an advertisement for Rare Bird Stereos, a company specializing in transforming vintage aesthetics into modern audio devices.

The postcard highlights a collection of these distinctive, handmade Bluetooth stereos, each appearing to be crafted from repurposed retro radios and other nostalgic items. This creative blend of old-school charm and contemporary technology is the brainchild of Kaden Hill, the owner and designer behind Rare Bird Stereos.

The postcard also provides contact information for those intrigued by these one-of-a-kind audio systems, listing the website www.RareBirdStereos.com and an Instagram handle, @RareBirdStereos. This innovative approach to combining vintage design with modern functionality is clearly striking a chord, even inspiring postcards to travel across continents.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 50

Postcard Unveils Early Vision of Sound Control. A recently received postcard offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century imaginings of sound technology. The image on the card, by artist Giulio Paolini, is part of a 1984 release by Italian broadcaster RAI and marketed by PosteItaliane. Sent via the Postcrossing forum by Isabetta from Italy, the card also depicts a radio valve housed in the RADIO AND TELEVISION MUSEUM OF TURIN.

Intriguingly, the postcard features a quote from Giuseppe Antonio Borgese, written in 1929, which eerily foreshadows modern audio control. Borgese mused, "Let us be slaves of time, servants of sounds, carried away by sound waves..... one can imagine that one day sounds will be controlled by us like light, with a small device for each room."

His vision extends to imagining "the little black button: darkness of sounds, astral silence: the little white button: irruptions of all the sounds of the universe." This poetic excerpt highlights a long-held fascination with manipulating and commanding audio, a reality now commonplace with devices at our fingertips. The postcard serves as a unique intersection of art, history, and a prescient understanding of future technology.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 49

Werben's Broadcasting Museum Featured on Postcard Hanseatic City of Werben, Germany. A recently received postcard offers a glimpse into the rich history of broadcasting, showcasing the exhibits of the Broadcasting Museum (Rundfunkmuseum) located in the historic Hanseatic city of Werben.

The postcard, sent by Lutz In golf Peters from Germany through the Postcrossing initiative, features a collage of images. Prominently displayed are numerous vintage radios, including classic valve radio sets, which were instrumental in the early days of radio transmission.

The postcard itself was produced by Milan Bold, with the photographs captured by Rudiger Haase. The images provide a visual tour of the museum, highlighting the evolution of radio technology over the decades.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 48

 

A Glimpse of Beijing Olympics Through a China Post Prepaid Postcard. This sticker prepaid postcard, issued and marketed by China Post, offers a snapshot of the excitement surrounding the Beijing Olympics. Released to commemorate the grand sporting event, this postcard also coincided with the launch of China's dedicated CCTV Olympic Channel, highlighting the nation's fervor for the Games.

Bearing the individual number 0177963, this collectible item offers more than just well wishes. Its design is a fascinating blend of technology and nostalgia. The pictures features a captivating array of eight distinct radio sets alongside a solitary gramophone player. This juxtaposition likely symbolizes the evolution of communication and entertainment, perhaps nodding to the modern broadcasting of the Olympics while acknowledging older forms of media.

Adding further intrigue to this postal artifact are the three special Pictorial Cancellations it bears. These unique markings, often applied to commemorate specific events or locations, would undoubtedly hold significance for collectors and add layers to the postcard's story.

This particular postcard embarked on its journey through the Postcrossing Forum in 2021, sent by Ashlay from China. This detail underscores the global reach of postcards and the way they connect people across borders, even after the initial celebratory event has passed. This China Post prepaid postcard, with its Olympic connection, technological imagery, special cancellations, and Postcrossing journey, serves as a tangible piece of history and a testament to the enduring appeal of both philately and international connection.

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Free Summer Workshop on Philately & Postcrossing

Postally Hut and Madras Postcrossing Commune Announce Free Summer Workshop on Philately & Postcrossing

Postally Hut and the Madras Postcrossing Commune are delighted to announce a joint five-day summer workshop on the fascinating hobbies of philately (stamp collecting) and postcrossing (sending and receiving postcards from around the world). This engaging and educational workshop is *free* and open to participants of all age groups.

The workshop will be held every Saturday starting from April 27th, 2025, to May 25th, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Chess Square, Nageswara Rao Park, Luz Ave, Bhaskarapuram, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004.

Participants will have the opportunity to delve into the captivating worlds of stamps and postcards through a series of interactive sessions covering various aspects of these enriching pastimes:

27.04.2025: Introduction to Postcrossing

04.05.2025: The Art of Postcard Writing

11.05.2025: Discovering Postage Stamps

18.05.2025: Exploring Special Covers

25.05.2025: Postcard Journaling

This workshop provides a unique platform for individuals to learn about different cultures, improve their writing skills, and connect with people globally through the simple joy of sending and receiving postcards. Philately enthusiasts will gain insights into the history, design, and significance of postage stamps.

Registration is mandatory for participation. Interested individuals are requested to scan the QR code provided in the poster to register for the workshop.

The workshop is organized by Dr. T. Jaisakthivel.

Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to explore the exciting worlds of philately and postcrossing!

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 47

Look what lovely mail I received on 2021! This vibrant postcard is part of the WoW Card series NO.14 and features an original design by Xiaohongshu (Weibo @HAHA577). It made its way all the way from Japan, sent by a fellow postcrosser back in 2021. It's always so fascinating to see these little pieces of radio art travel across the globe and land right here in Chennai!

What really caught my eye about this particular card is the focus on two-in-radios. There are three distinct radio sets images depicted, each with its own unique charm and vintage feel. It makes me wonder about the stories these radios could tell and the music they once played. It's a beautiful reminder of a different era and the simple joy of tuning into a broadcast.

It's these unexpected connections and glimpses into other cultures that make postcrossing so special. A big thank you to the sender in Japan for this wonderful addition to my radio postcard collection! It's a little piece of happiness that brightened my day. 

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 46

Nipper Returns in Nostalgic Postcard from the United Nations

A charming postcard titled "Nipper is Back!" has arrived from James at the United Nations, featuring a whimsical rendition of the iconic "His Master's Voice" logo. The artwork, created in colored pencil on paper by Greg Otto in 1985, depicts the beloved terrier, Nipper, attentively listening to a gramophone atop a vibrant, cartoonish building.

Measuring 10"x6", the postcard is part of the collection of Mr. & Mrs. E. Scott Johnson. The familiar image of Nipper, forever associated with early sound recording and radio broadcasting, evokes a sense of nostalgia for the dawn of these technologies. The postcard's journey from the United Nations adds an intriguing layer to its story, connecting a piece of art history with a global perspective.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 45

A vibrant postcard showcasing the iconic radio sets of the 1960s has received recently, carrying with it a slice of retro charm from Finland. The postcard, part of a series titled "Travel tracks of the 60s," features captivating photography by Riitta Eskelinen, who has skillfully captured the essence of the decade's sound technology.

The image on the postcard displays a nostalgic collection of vintage radio sets, each a testament to the design aesthetics and technological advancements of the era. From sleek transistor radios to larger, more elaborate models, the postcard offers a visual journey back to a time when these devices were the primary source of music and news for many.

This particular piece of postcard art was sent by Heli, a Postcrosser hailing from Finland. Heli's choice of this retro-themed card suggests a shared appreciation for history and the tangible beauty of physical correspondence.

The postcard is marketed by ifolor.fi, a company known for its personalized photo products. This collaboration between Eskelinen's evocative photography and ifolor's printing expertise has resulted in a delightful keepsake that resonates with both nostalgia enthusiasts and Postcrossing participants.

The arrival of this "Travel tracks of the 60s" postcard in Chennai serves as a charming reminder of the interconnectedness fostered by Postcrossing and the enduring appeal of vintage design. It’s a small piece of Finnish culture and 1960s history, now adding a unique note to a collection in India.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 44

A piece of iconic design history has recently journeyed through the postal system, arriving as a postcard sent by TUSHAR SONJE. The postcard features a striking image from The Design Museum Collection: the Phono super radiogram, a groundbreaking piece designed in 1956 by the renowned duo of Hans Gugelot and Dieter Rams for Braun.

This "Phono super" represents a pivotal moment in modern industrial design, showcasing the functionalist and minimalist principles that would come to define Braun's aesthetic under Rams' influence. The photograph on the postcard, credited to The Design Museum (c. 2008-9), beautifully captures the clean lines and innovative integration of radio and record player in one unit.

The fact that this design classic, preserved in The Design Museum's collection, is now circulating as a postcard highlights the enduring appeal and influence of Gugelot and Rams' work. It serves as a miniature reminder of the power of good design to transcend time and borders.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 43

A unique postcard showcasing a collection of historical postal artifacts has arrived from across the globe, sent by a sender identified as Monika from Brazil. The postcard, marketed by Magyar Posts (the Hungarian postal service), features a photograph by Hajdu Jozsef and was printed by the PostaMuzeum (the Hungarian Postal Museum).

The card displays a grid of images depicting various items related to the history of communication and postal services. Among the featured items are what appears to be an ornate postal carriage, an early telephone, a vintage stamp, a wooden radio, a Morse code key apparatus, and a blue post box.

"Here in this card I like the wooden radio and the morse code key." This personal note highlights the enduring fascination with early forms of electronic communication.

This postcard serves as a small yet tangible connection to Hungarian postal history, traveling thousands of miles to reach its destination and sparking interest in its historical contents. The collaboration between Magyar Posts, photographer Hajdu Jozsef, and the PostaMuzeum has resulted in a collectible item that shares a glimpse into the evolution of communication.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 42

A picture postcard showcasing a collection of vintage radios has been released by The Kannamma Studio. The postcard, received from sender Dr. Suprita Pai, features a vibrant image of numerous classic radio sets neatly arranged on shelves.

The photograph captures a nostalgic glimpse into the history of audio technology, displaying a variety of radio designs from different eras. From wooden-cased models to more streamlined, mid-century designs, the collection highlights the evolution of radio aesthetics. Each radio on the postcard appears to be a well-preserved piece, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a time when radio was a central form of entertainment and communication.

The Kannamma Studio, known for its artistic and often locally-themed postcards, has once again printed a unique subject. The choice of vintage radios offers a visually appealing and culturally significant image, likely to resonate with collectors, history enthusiasts, and anyone with an appreciation for retro design.

The fact that this particular postcard was sent by Dr. Suprita Pai suggests its appeal extends to individuals with diverse interests. It serves as a reminder of the enduring charm of tangible communication and the beauty found in everyday objects from the past.

This is a delightful addition to the world of radio postcards, offering a miniature glimpse into a fascinating collection of vintage radios. It is sure to be a treasured item for those who receive it.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 41

This maxi postcard, proudly issued by Australia Post, offers a nostalgic glimpse into the sounds of Australian youth in the 1960s. Sent by Maryam Hess from the land Down Under, the card beautifully showcases a commemorative stamp alongside a corresponding image – the iconic 1963 pale-pink AWA B28 portable record player.

The stamp and the postcard illustration perfectly complement each other, creating a "maxi card" that celebrates a piece of Australian audio history. The featured AWA B28 was more than just a record player; it was an affordable gateway to music for a generation. Battery-operated and easily portable, it allowed teenagers to take their favourite tunes wherever they went, providing the soundtrack to countless gatherings and personal moments.

While perhaps not lauded for its high-fidelity sound, the AWA B28 held a significant technological achievement within its pastel-hued casing. It boasted AWA's revolutionary, locally-produced transistor amplifier. This was a noteworthy feat, as Amalgamated Wireless Australasia Ltd (AWA) had already established itself as a pioneer in the Australian electronics industry by being the first to manufacture a transistor radio in the country.

This maxi postcard serves as a delightful reminder of a time when music became more accessible and portable, thanks in part to innovations like the AWA B28. It's a tangible piece of social and technological history, connecting us to the youthful exuberance and burgeoning music scene of 1960s Australia, thoughtfully shared by Maryam Hess.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 40

This postcard is capturing the essence of 1950s design with its striking image of a Dual Party Case record player radio connection from 1955. The modern postcard features a photograph of this classic piece, highlighting the distinctive aesthetics of the era.

The featured Dual Party Case, a testament to the innovative design of the mid-20th century, is part of the esteemed collection of Hermann Götting, based in Cologne. The captivating photograph showcased on the postcard was expertly captured by Bernhard Schaub, also residing in Cologne, Germany.

For enthusiasts of '50s design and vintage technology, this particular image holds further significance. It is also featured in a book on the era's design, published and marketed by Benedikt Taschen Verlag GmbH (Koln), making the postcard a tangible piece connected to a broader exploration of the decade's visual culture. This postcard serves as a stylish tribute to a earlier era, readily available for collectors and design aficionados alike.

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 39

This beautiful postcard printed from Ekaterina, received in 2020! 🕰️ It features a classic gramophone, a true pioneer of sound technology.

Let's take a moment to appreciate the history of this incredible invention. The gramophone, patented by Emile Berliner in 1887, revolutionized how we listened to music. Unlike earlier cylinder phonographs, it used flat discs to record and play sound, making mass production and distribution of music much more feasible. Imagine a world before easily accessible recorded music!

But did you know the gramophone also played a crucial role in the early days of radio broadcasting? 📻 Before live performances became the norm, radio stations heavily relied on gramophone records to fill airtime. These discs brought music, news, and stories to countless listeners, shaping the very foundation of radio as we know it.

The gramophone wasn't just a device; it was a cultural force, democratizing access to audio entertainment and paving the way for the music industry and broadcast media we enjoy today.

Thank you, Ekaterina, for this nostalgic reminder of a pivotal piece of audio history! ❤️

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 38

This maxi postcard from Australia! It features the Kriesler Master Multi Sonic radiogram from 1966, a true icon of Australian home entertainment. From the 1950s to the 1970s, radiograms like this were the heart of many Aussie homes, combining radio and record player into one stylish unit. 

This particular model, captured beautifully in Melissa Webb's photograph, reminds us of a time when gathering around to listen to music or the radio was a shared experience. The postcard also includes stamps from the recent issue commemorating these classic machines, highlighting the $1.20 denomination and the intricate design by Jo Muré. 

It's fascinating to learn about the evolution of these devices, from valve amplifiers to transistorized models, and the shift from mono to stereo sound. A real piece of Australian nostalgia, celebrating a golden era of local manufacturing and the enduring appeal of vinyl records! 

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 37

 

Just added this Radio related postcard to my collection! It's a reproduction of a vintage General Post Office (GPO) poster, titled "Radio: A Message Home," dating back to around 1930-1955. 📻✉️

The original poster, part of the Science Museum Group Collection, highlights the GPO's role in early radio communication. (Check out the tiny GPO logo in the top left corner!) It's a beautiful piece of design, and I love how it captures the excitement and wonder of radio as a way to connect with loved ones.

This postcard, published by The National Railway Museum and printed and distributed by Star Editions Ltd, is a great find for me. While my main interest is dxing, I have a hard spot for radio-related memorabilia, and this card ticks that box perfectly.

It also connects to my interest in postal history. Did you know there were strict rules about postcards back in the day? Size, thickness, even the placement and amount of text were regulated. That's why you sometimes see "PRINTED MATTER" instead of "POST CARD" on older cards. It's a whole fascinating area of collecting!

But above all, it's just a cracking poster design! How many of you collect postcards with a connection to radio or postal history?

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 36

🎶 A Musical Journey Through Time! 🎶

I received this interesting and whimsical postcard from a fellow postcrosser in Lithuania! It's titled "Musical Journey," a delightful artwork by Vilijus Vaisvilla, and printed by Duke Cards.

Look at that gramophone front!  It's a beautiful reminder of the early days of radio and recorded music. Imagine the warm, crackling sounds filling the air as this vehicle journeys through a colorful landscape.  The artist really captured the playful spirit of that era.

This is postcard #82, printed in Lithuania in 2021.  It's amazing how a simple card can transport you to another time and place.  Thank you to my Lithuanian friend for sending this little piece of art and history! 🇱🇹

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 35

Received a fascinating postcard from Ann in Russia! 💌 It features the cover of "Radio News" magazine from March 1941. 📻

This magazine was a real gem, published monthly in the US from 1919 to 1971. Founded by Hugo Gernsback, it started out for amateur radio fans but grew to cover all things radio and electronics.

Check out the cover art! It's classic, often done by Howard Brown in a style reminiscent of Norman Rockwell. Inside, you'd find editorials, tech articles, general interest pieces, and ads.

It was a go-to for discussions on radio technology. Later, in 1959, it was renamed "Electronics World."

Pretty cool slice of history! Thanks, Ann! 

😊 

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A Radio Postcard Journey - 34

✨ Dreaming in Ink & Sound ✨

Received this absolutely stunning postcard, a winning piece from the Maokong 8th Illustration Competition! 🏆

This artwork, titled "Day Dream," is a visual feast, capturing the essence of reverie with a unique twist. Notice the gramophone speaker – a brilliant touch by the artist, Uncle Snail, symbolizing the "radio" of our daydreams. 📻

The whimsical scene, with its caged figure and soaring birds, is both captivating and thought-provoking. It's no wonder this illustration was recognized for its creativity and originality!

A special shoutout to Maokong Bookstore for holding such a fantastic competition and for owning the utility patent sent to the future! And kudos to Cats Sky City for the beautiful printing.

This postcard was lovingly sent all the way from China by Dongr. It's a little piece of art and a reminder to let our imaginations take flight. 🕊️

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