“Women of The Future” According to The French Artist Albert Bergeret, 1902

In 1902, a French manufacturer released a set of trading cards designed by artist Albert Bergeret that imagined the “women of the future” (original: Les Femmes de l’Avenir). These cards depict various, imagined occupations that would have seemed fantastical to most ladies at the time: doctor, lawyer, politician, firefighter, even members of the military.

h/t: rarehistoricalphotos

Firefighter.

Although some of the images may have been received as risqué at the time, Bergeret had an indisputably progressive vision for his time. From firefighter to doctor, student to journalist, politician to lawyer, the artist was right on point with his “predictions,” albeit the impractical wardrobe choices.

A woman a member of a light-infantry corps in the French army.

Judging by some of the revealing clothing, the ‘pin-up-style’ cards were meant to capture men’s fantasies rather than be part of any feminist movement. Either way, there’s something charming about this retro futuristic attempt to expand the role of women in society, even if it was nothing but fantasy at the time.

Military-fencing Master.

Bergeret became a successful businessman. His studio was the leading postcard producer in France. In 1900 he produced 25 million cards and by 1903 he published 75 million postcards. Bergeret died in 1932 but his postcards are still renowned today.

Student.

A doctor.

A member of the Assemblée.

A mayor. Women in France were not allowed to serve in office until 1944.

A lawyer. Women in France were allowed to practice law in 1900.

A journalist with a duck-detailed hat.

A coachwoman.

A Jockey.

An artist.

A general. The revealing outfits cater more men’s fantasies than any feminist movement.

Second lieutenant. Women did serve in the ‘armé’ from 1792-1794 but did not fight in battle.

A sergeant.

A sailor.

Military drummer.