A Rare Postcard Sent by a French Nationalist, One of Dreyfus’ Opponents, to Pierre Almirouic Living at 192 Rue de Conseillers, Paris. The postcard depicts Alfred Dreyfus in a mocking manner, with three legs and hanging by a rope around his neck. A document peeks from his pocket labeled “bordereau, ” referring to the infamous “document of treason” that Dreyfus was accused of using to pass military secrets to Germany. This document was the central evidence used by his opponents to charge Dreyfus with treason.
Next to the medallion showing Dreyfus hanging, with the inscription “La Verite En Marche” (“The Truth in Motion”), a handwritten note addressed to Pierre Almirouic reads:
“My dear Pierre, The sense of duty, the spirit of sacrifice that guides you, the promises you made at the school of duty – all these are in your heart, burning with that holy fire called love of the homeland. Therefore, my young friend, in your life, you must always strive to show that you are a true son of your ancestors. With much affection, Frédéric.” The postcard was mailed from Toulouse on September 5, 1899, via Reichspost mail.
The phrase “The Truth in Motion” in the context of the Dreyfus Affair at the time expressed the opponents’ desire to see Dreyfus hanged, conveying their hope that the “truth” (in their view) would soon come to light. This postcard was sent during the military trial in Rennes, where Dreyfus was found guilty of treason with mitigating circumstances and sentenced to ten years in prison.
Dimensions: 9×14 cm. very good condition.
