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OverviewThis captivating Rotograph postcard captures a dramatic moment from the original American production of J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan, featuring the legendary actress Maude Adams in her most famous role. The image depicts the climactic scene in Act V aboard the pirate ship, the Jolly Roger. Maude Adams, who originated the role on Broadway in 1905 and became synonymous with the character, stands triumphant center stage. She is surrounded by the "children" (Lost Boys and Darlings), who are brandishing swords after defeating Captain Hook's crew. The photograph was taken by Hall, a premier theatrical photographer of the era, preserving the elaborate stagecraft and costumes of early 20th-century Broadway.
Front of PostcardThe black and white image shows a theatrical stage set designed to look like the deck of a pirate ship. In the center, Maude Adams stands with her legs apart and arms wide open in a gesture of victory; she wears the iconic Peter Pan tunic and tights. Surrounding her are seven other actors (the children) kneeling or crouching, holding swords aloft. In the background, the ship's mast flies a large flag with a skull and crossbones. The set includes a raised deck with balustrades and a painted backdrop depicting a rugged, mountainous coastline.
Printed Text (on front)"ROTOGRAPH" SERIESHall N.Y. 16MAUDE ADAMS & THE CHILDRENin "Peter Pan" Act VB 1952
Reverse Side
Handwritten CorrespondenceI wish you many happy returns of the dayErnest.
Postal History & Printed Details
Postmark: Circular datestamp from NORRISTOWN, PA, dated MAR [?] 1909.
Stamp: United States 1-cent green Benjamin Franklin stamp, Series of 1902 (Scott #300). As we are not stamp experts, this identification is for reference only.
Layout: Undivided Back (Note: Although this has a dividing line, the space for writing is restricted to the front or bottom margin on true undivided backs, but this transitional layout allows writing on the left, marking it as a Divided Back era usage).
Publisher Information: "THE ROTOGRAPH CO. N.Y. CITY" printed with logo in the bottom left corner.
