Trade cards were a means of communication and exchange that began in London during the 17th century. Trade cards were actually a predecessor to calling cards, or "carte de visite.” While the later versions of trade cards were typically just photographs of men, women, children and families, trade cards served several purposes.
In addition to being a type of calling card for personal matters, they were also a business card of sorts. When these cards first began being used, businesses simply placed their names and emblems on these cards. As time went on, these designs became more intricate and gave more detailed information.
By the early 18th century, these cards were being mass produced by businesses, containing information on both sides of these cards; often times it would be the name of the company and hours of operation, and the reverse side would have a small map showing the location of the business.
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Trade cards also began reflecting witty slogans, as well as temporary offers that were being offered at these locations. These cards were also sometimes used for personal use. Upper class citizens sometimes had these cards printed to show off their reputable name, as well as alert others to dinner parties, recitals, and other celebrations. Trade cards maintained their popularity through the end of the 19th century, when the rise of advertising and communicating in postcards took over.
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