I admired the wonderful coloration of this postcard when I first saw it.

The many shades of blue and purple are exquisitely applied.

Despite the deterioration of the edges (I made digital repairs to the face) and an errant ink mark across one skirt, the print is in good condition – especially because it is printed on a softer paper than many other postcards.

Made in France, the postcard lacks any indication of the artist, publisher, or printer.  The style suggests a printing in the very earliest years of the twentieth century.

The maidens appear to be going to the church pictured in the distance – one of the women clutches a prayer book.

Today is Ash Wednesday, the solemn calling to account of the integrity of our lives.

Worshippers renounce the “pride, impatience, and hypocrisy” that distorts our recognition of ultimate meaning.

And, reminded of our mortality, we bear marks of mourning.

The women, although dressed in somber shades, appear too merry and high-spirited to be observing Ash Wednesday.