Saint Francis vintage card

 

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Holy cards are a style of Catholic devotion that originated during the 15th century. They gained popularity in medieval Europe after the advent of the printing press and after ameliorations in the papermaking process allowed greater production at a lower price. Medieval Europe was overwhelmingly Christian, and prior to the early 16th century, much of the region was Catholic. 

However, literacy rates did not rise to a majority — even in many wealthy countries — until the end of the 18th century. As a result, holy cards became a way for Catholics to embrace their faith, whether they could read or not. Cards have been used for a variety of purposes such as announcing first communions, births and deaths; giving tribute to religious icons; and marking significant dates. 

Most of the cards are colored and include a central figure of a Catholic Saint. Some holy cards have been decorated at their edges with small and symmetrical cuts, providing aesthetic appeal on the card itself. 

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