First World War Black and White Postcard of the River Nile at Cairo

c. 1915
Overview

A sepia-coloured artistic postcard showing a small sailing boat at the banks of a river with men working around it. The banks are stepped with trees on the edge. In the foreground are women one of which is carrying a basket on her head and others who appear to be washing clothes in the river. A child can also be seen with the women. The postcard is in overall in good condition although there are some marks on the back. The reverse also has proforma printing and description of the image.

Historical information

This image depicts a Felucca, a traditional, wooden, single-masted sailing boat. Having navigated the Nile since ancient times, they were widely used by locals for fishing, ferrying cargo, and light transportation. Egyptian women spent hours at the Nile washing clothes.

Details

Details

Registration number
cwa-org-12-2022.1.126
Item type
Postcards
Material
Card
Width
74 mm
Height or length
171 mm
Inscriptions and markings

On the reverse in machine printing “ARTISTIC POST – CARD / Serie 638 – The Cairo Postcard Trust – Cairo / Cairo – The Nile / 635”

Contextual information

The Cairo Postcard Trust (founded in the early 20th century) is one of the most famous and trusted publishers of vintage Egyptian postcards. These highly collectible, antique photographs and artistic illustrations document the golden age of travel in Cairo, capturing historical landmarks, bustling streets, and the pyramids.

Keywords
First World War
Egypt
Place made
Egypt
Year
Primary significance criteria
Historic significance
Comparative significance criteria
Interpretive capacity
Well provenanced
Google Maps search term / URL
https://maps.app.goo.gl/gWHZtRH1mm24SAjK8
Last modified
Tuesday, 30 June, 2026
Completeness
100
Princess Royal Fortress Military Museum

Princess Royal Fortress Military Museum

Postcard Front
The River Nile
Back View
Reverse of Postcard

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