Date of use : 1913 Austria

Langer & Comp Hrdliczka – Photo Paper and Chemical Maker

This envelope represents a commercial postal document illustrating the trade networks of the photographic industry in Central Europe during the early twentieth century. The printed heading on the envelope reads "Vereinigte photographische Industrien Langen & Comp., F. Hrdličzka Gesellschaft m.b.H.", indicating that the sender was a company engaged in the production or distribution of photographic equipment and materials. The address provided, "Wien, III. Hauptstraße 95," places the firm in the third district of Vienna. This area was known during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries as an important zone for industrial and commercial enterprises.

The phrase "Vereinigte photographische Industrien" suggests that the company may have been formed through the combination of several photographic manufacturers or commercial ventures. Such mergers were common during the rapid expansion of photographic technology, as companies sought to strengthen their competitive position within the European market. The designation "Gesellschaft m.b.H." refers to a limited liability corporate structure, indicating that the company operated within a modern legal and commercial framework.

A second name appearing in the company title, F. Hrdličzka, was likely one of the partners or directors involved in the enterprise. The Czech origin of the surname reflects the multinational commercial environment of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. During this period, cities such as Vienna, Prague, and Brno were closely interconnected through trade in photographic equipment and optical technology. The presence of business partners from different cultural backgrounds was therefore typical within the economic networks of the empire.

This item is documented as part of the Photography in Postal History research project.
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