Color: the principle attraction

Color was the principle attraction of Victorian advertising trade cards. Magazines and newspapers of the time were black & white. This Lion Coffee card had color for sure and it was embossed, too!

As can be seen by the creases on the back, this card was embossed so that the design on the front of the card stood out in relief. For instance, the model's elbow can be viewed on this side of the card just above the "T" of Toledo.

Enticing winter landscapes

Enticing winter landscapes appeared on many Lion Coffee cards. Almost makes one long for the winter season's return, doesn't it!

There are beautiful aspects to all seasons. Hope you can enjoy them all and, if you're somewhere in the world that does not have "seasons," here's your chance to appreciate them!

This lion's inscrutable expression makes it the "Mona Lisa" of lions.

The calligraphy on the back of this card sets a standard for Woolson Spice's Victorian rivals to match! Lion Coffee cards became known for the beauty on both sides of their cards.

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Embossing + Calligraphy = flashy Victorian trade card

Rose child

Embossing made some Lion Coffee cards special. Adding interest, the fancy calligraphy on the backs of their colorful cards became legendary.



The Graphic Designer's Guide to Embossing is an excellent introduction to the craft, which is also discussed on Wikipedia.

  The Paper has crafting tips and directions for your hand embossing activities with some handy references.