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Fernande was one of a myriad of French postcard models who's heyday was
about 100 years ago. Fernande is to early 1900s pinup postcards what Bettie
Page is to 1950s pinup. Fernande had hauntingly beautiful eyes, pouty lips,
an infectious smile and a bountiful body. Fernande's career lasted possibly
about 15 years. She was the most prolifically photographed French nude model
of the time. Most of Fernande's work was published by Jean Agelou whose
familiar "JA" can be seen stamped on many postcards of the period. Many of
his Fernande images were reproduced by rogue postcard manufacturers who
would alter his logo or simply cut Fernande out and place her on a different
background. Postcards surface from time to time with Fernande's address on
the reverse. I believe during Fernande's day that she was well known amongst
the circle of photographers who worked in France. Since this is most likely
true, I think that her address printed on the back of the card was for
another type of customer.
Who was the mysterious Fernande? Many are still enamored with her which is
evidenced by the following she has on eBay. You can always find vintage
postcards of her on eBay. Whatever it was, she had it and was fabulous.
The images in the Fernande section are roughly arranged in chronological
order except for some miscellaneous images near the end of the third page.
The Fernande section has over 460 images and is still
growing.
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