Historical information

The Brisbane Courier (7 Dec 1898) carried an advertisement for greeting cards, of which the horseshoe box is one. It was retailed by T. C. Beirne and Co., Cash Drapers, The Valley, Brisbane.

"CHRISTMAS CARDS.
Well-assorted Packets and Boxes of beautiful Christmas and New Year Cards at the following startling prices :-Assorted Cards in Packet: The "Snowdrift" Packet, containing 25 cards, 4¾d; postage, 2d. extra. "The Scarlet Berry" Packet, containing 50 cards, 6¾d; postage, 4d. extra. Assorted Cards, in Boxes, with Envelopes : The Horse-shoe Box, containing 10 cards and envelopes, 4¾d;..."

Physical description

Maroon cardboard box with silver decorative cover. The overall design is of a horse shoe surrounded by garlands.

Inscriptions & markings

HORSESHOE / THE CABINET OF ARTISTIC AUSTOGRAPH AND CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR CARDS AND ENVELOPES