The Ottoman Empire’s vast administrative reach included Baghdad, which was an essential hub for trade, culture, and communication in the early 20th century. This postcard from 1907, sent from Baghdad to Paris, provides a remarkable insight into the city’s history and the efficient postal system of the Ottoman Empire.
The Postcard: A Historical Snapshot
The postcard’s front side features a photograph labeled “A View of Moazam, near Carriage Station (Near Baghdad),” which depicts an area bustling with activity. The Moazam Gate (currently known as the Adhamiyah Gate) was a prominent landmark, reflecting the architectural style and vibrant social life of Baghdad during the Ottoman period.
On the reverse, the card bears a 20-para Ottoman stamp canceled with a Baghdad postal mark, confirming its journey across international borders to Paris, France. The handwriting also indicates that the card was written on April 10, 1907.
The Cancellation: A Philatelic Gem
The cancellation is an example of the multilingual and structured Ottoman postal system. It includes:
- The name Bagdad (the French spelling used by the Ottoman administration for international mail).
- The date 22.4 (in the Gregorian calendar), confirming its dispatch shortly after being written.
- Arabic script used for local and administrative purposes, a hallmark of the diverse languages accommodated by the Ottoman postal network.
This cancellation highlights the Ottoman Empire’s efforts to maintain effective communication channels across its vast territories and beyond.
The Message: A Personal Connection
The brief handwritten note and elegant signature on the card reflect its sender’s attention to detail. Though the text does not contain a detailed message, it conveys a warm acknowledgment to the recipient, Mademoiselle Kelly in Paris. This simple correspondence offers a glimpse into the personal connections facilitated by the Ottoman postal system.
Philatelic and Historical Importance
- The Stamp and Cancellation: The Ottoman 20-para stamp, with its intricate design, is emblematic of the empire’s philatelic artistry. The clear cancellation adds to the value of this postcard, making it a prized piece for collectors.
- Cultural Significance: The Moazam area, featured on the postcard, represents Baghdad’s historical and cultural richness. Its transformation over the years mirrors the broader changes in Iraq’s history.
- Global Connectivity: This postcard exemplifies how Baghdad served as a bridge between East and West, connected to major cities like Paris through a robust postal network.
Historical Context
In 1907, Baghdad was under Ottoman rule, and the city was a center of commerce and culture. The Ottoman postal system, established in the mid-19th century, played a critical role in connecting Baghdad to other parts of the empire and beyond. This postcard serves as a tangible reminder of the interconnectedness of the world, even in an era long before modern communication.
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