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Mulreadys wrapper envelope, 1840 (1956)
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Mulreadys wrapper envelope, 1840 (1956)
Mulreadys wrapper envelope, 1840 (1956). Decorated with designs by the artist William Mulready, these pre-paid envelopes, together with lettersheets, were introduced as part of the postal reforms instigated by the Post Office in 1840. They were brought out at the same time as the first postage stamps, but were unsuccessful and were withdrawn only two months after they were first introduced. A print from Things, a volume about the origin and early history of many things, common and less common, essential and inessential, by Readers Union, the Grosvenor Press, London, 1956
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Media ID 14949549
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Envelope Innovation Mail Post Post Office Postage Print Collector11 Royal Mail Stationery William Mulready Mulready Postal Service
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a Mulready's wrapper envelope from 1840, adorned with intricate designs by the renowned artist William Mulready. These envelopes were part of the postal reforms initiated by the Post Office in that year, introduced alongside the first postage stamps. However, despite their promising beginnings, these pre-paid envelopes proved to be unsuccessful and were withdrawn a mere two months after their launch. The image captures not only an object of historical significance but also represents a pivotal moment in communications and innovation during the 19th century. The envelope itself serves as a symbol of Victorian stationery and postal history, embodying both practicality and aesthetic appeal. Displayed within this monochrome print is an item that once played a crucial role in facilitating communication across Britain - connecting people through letters sent via Royal Mail. It reminds us of how far we have come since then, with modern advancements rendering such objects obsolete. This photograph is sourced from "Things" a volume published by Readers Union in London in 1956. The book explores various origins and early histories of everyday items, shedding light on both essential and non-essential aspects of life. Through this image captured by an unknown creator, we are transported back to a time when even simple objects like envelopes held great importance in shaping our society's communication systems.
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