Calling Cards

In the days of Victorian aristocracy, calling cards were a vital part of the social scene. One could say they were the social media of the era. They were often carried by well-do-to women to give out as a request for a visit. Lady's cards were always larger than men's and a married man's card was larger than a single man's.

Leaving a business card for a social purpose was poor etiquette. Calling cards were more personal beautiful creations with calligraphy, birds, flowers or other embellishments. Later, hidden name cards had the bearer’s name concealed by an added layer of paper, usually with a lavish design. Card colour, design, style and even folds had hidden meanings to the card recipient. For instance, a black border signified mourning by the card carrier. Turning a corner had several meanings:

• A visit in person (as opposed to by a servant): the right hand upper corner.
• A congratulatory visit: the left hand upper corner - A condolence visit: the left hand lower corner.
• Taking leave (if you were going on a long trip): right hand lower corner.
• If there were two of more ladies in the household, the gentleman turned down a corner of the card to show the call was for the whole family.

Calling cards were left with a servant or in the “card receiver”, a small tray on the foyer table. The visitor could not expect an answer quickly and usually a reply card was received at their own house within a couple of days. This card would have the lady’s “at home” day printed, showing an appropriate time to visit. To say they would not be available for a visit, either the calling card was returned in an envelope, or no card was sent in reply.

With the invention of the telephone, calling cards became a thing of the past. Yet, in this very digital age, they have made a small come back. People find they offer a personal touch that many crave instead of just another email or text.

If you’re curious, examples are in the card receiver on the foyer table here in the Ceremonial Entrance.