Hand Painted Halloween Postcard With Witch Broom And Black Cat

The imagery of a witch riding a broomstick, often accompanied by a black cat, has deep roots in European folklore, becoming a prominent visual during the witch trials of the early modern period, particularly from the 15th century onward. The broomstick symbolized domesticity perverted, while black cats were frequently associated with witches as "familiars"—supernatural companions believed to aid in magical practices and often seen as omens of misfortune or embodiments of evil spirits.

By the early 20th century, as seen in this 1912 postcard, these once fearsome symbols had largely transformed into playful and whimsical motifs for holiday celebrations, especially Halloween. This period marked the "Golden Age" of postcards, and illustrated greetings featuring stylized witches and other spooky elements became popular. Such postcards reflect the increasing commercialization and Americanization of Halloween, shifting from solemn Celtic traditions to a more lighthearted festival of costumes, parties, and seasonal cheer.