GABY DESLYS - PICTURE POST CARD SIGNED CO-SIGNED BY: HARRY PILCER - HFSID 78734

GABY DESLYS and HARRY PILCER
Velvograph Postcard (3½x5½) signed by the Broadway and film sensations who were also rumored to be husband and wife. Extremely rare signatures from both!
Picture post card signed: "Gaby Deslys", "Harry Picler", in blue ink, B/w 3½x5½ affixed to 4½x6¾. GABY DESLYS (1881-1920) was a danseuse, singer, and actress who became incredibly popular worldwide in the 1910's. Born Marie-Elise-Gabrielle Caire, Deslys chose her stage name as an abbreviation of Gabrielle of the Lillies. Known for her beauty, Deslys delighted audiences both on stage and off, appearing on Broadway in her early career and making the jump to silent films soon after. She also saw popularity after King Manuel II of Portugal's infatuation with her became public knowledge, having an on again, off again relationship for a number of years (though she later became involved with actor Harry Pilcer). In 1919, Deslys contracted a severe throat infection caused by the Spanish influenza, which was further complicated by her request to not have any surgeries done that would scar her neck. She died soon after, passing away in Paris in 1920, leaving her entire estate to the poor of Marseilles. HARRY PILCER (1885-1961) is best remembered for his association with the ill-fated Deslys, appearing in four Broadway musicals with the worldwide sensation between 1911 and 1916. The duo also appeared in two films together; the 1915 drama Her Triumph and the French Bouclette (1918). Pilcer and Deslys were destined to have a lengthy career together, but unfortunately were separated by a throat infection that took Deslys' life. Although the two were never confirmed married, it is often rumored they had secretly wed before her death. After her death, Pilcer primarily worked as a choreographer and dance instructor until his own death in 1961. Corners lightly worn and creased. Lightly toned. Slightly soiled. Top edge frayed and torn on backing sheet, with light surface creases throughout. Signatures in poor contrast, but legible. Otherwise, fine condition.