Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

June 2026 Vernacular Photo History Auction

Wed, Jun 24, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 501

Real Photo Postcard, The Famous Three Royal Midgets, 1941

Estimate: $25 - $50

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$100 $10
$200 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
The Famous Three Royal Midgets captured in this real photo postcard likely produced for sale at a fair appearance, are billed as two sisters and a brother. A handwritten notation on the reverse reads "Fair 1941." The printed caption across the lower image identifies the act by name, and catalog number 3793 appears at lower left. The photographer's imprint is not visible on the reverse.

The figure at left wears a plaid jacket with a bow tie and dark shorts, caught mid-step with arms extended in a lively pose. The central figure is dressed in formal white shirt, bow tie, and dark trousers, while the figure at right wears a long floor-length gown and a wide-brimmed decorated hat. All three are posed against an elaborate painted backdrop depicting classical columns, draped fabric, a stained glass doorway, and a landscaped garden scene.

The Three Royal Midgets were an active sideshow and carnival performing act during the 1930s and 1940s, appearing at fairs and exhibitions across the United States. Real photo postcards of this type were commonly sold as souvenirs directly by performers at their venues.

The reverse reads "Fair 1941" in pencil at top, with the notation "4/19/13 COLAB/" written vertically along the right edge.

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