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San Francisco,CA - c1900-1915 - Cigar Store Pair of Mounted Photographs, "The Parlor" :

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Cigars Start Price:100.00 USD Estimated At:200.00 - 400.00 USD
San Francisco,CA - c1900-1915 - Cigar Store Pair of Mounted Photographs,  The Parlor  :
Lot of two beautifully mounted photographs of The Parlor. The interior shot is labeled "No. 11 S. First St." and the exterior shot is labeled "Our Other Store". An announcement clearly reads that the Jack and Morris Hill business is changing hands to Hill, Kehl, and Widby. The exterior photograph advertises a shipment of Orange Blossom Candies with a sign in the window. Both photographs show a floral decoration in the shape of a swastika clearly displayed. Across the swastika is the word "success". The swastika was used by many cultures throughout the past 3,000 years to represent life, sun, power, strength, and good luck long before it became associated with the Nazi party. In the early twentieth century, the swastika remained a symbol with positive connotations and was a common decoration used to adorn cigarette cases, postcards, coins, and buildings. It is interesting to note, however, that early anti-semetic German political parties raised money by selling a tobacco called "Anti-Semit", an ironic turn as Hitler later headed up an anti-smoking campaign. We choose to believe the floral displays pictured here are intended as a symbol of good luck for the opening of these establishments. Both photographs measure approximately 4 1/2" X 6 1/2" and are mounted on 7" X 9" black cardstock. Good condition and contrast.