At LeBonJournal, we are deeply inspired by the charm of historical ephemera and the rich graphic traditions of the past. One of our favorite pieces of historical artwork is the original mid-19th-century sheet music cover for the popular Victorian song “The Postman’s Knock”. Published around 1855 in London, this exquisite piece captures a time when the arrival of the daily mail was a momentous, highly anticipated event in everyday life.
The stunning lithographic cover was crafted by artist S. Rosenthal, located at Red Lion Square in Holborn, and printed by the renowned publishing house Robert Cocks & Co. It vividly depicts a British postman in his classic uniform—featuring a striking red tailcoat, patterned vest, and top hat—cheerfully reaching for the door knocker of a grand residence. Dedicated by permission to Rowland Hill, the brilliant mind behind postal reform and the creation of the postage stamp, the artwork pays tribute to an era that revolutionized global communication and connection.
Inside the musical scores, composed by W. T. Wrighton with lyrical verses by L. M. Thornton, the song celebrates the postman as a welcome bearer of news for “high, low, rich, and poor.” This romanticized view of correspondence aligns closely with our appreciation for handwritten letters, physical journals, and the art of putting pen to paper. By preserving and restoring these authentic design elements, we bring a touch of 19th-century elegance directly into modern daily journaling.
Discover the charm of this era yourself by exploring The Postman’s Knock Hardcover Journal, designed to inspire your own personal notes, sketches, and stories.
References
- Musical Composition: “The Postman’s Knock” (c. 1855). Music by W. T. Wrighton; Lyrics by L. M. Thornton, Esq.
- Publisher: Robert Cocks & Co., New Burlington Street, London (Music Publishers to Her Most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria and His Imperial Majesty the Emperor Napoleon III).
- Lithography: Illustrated by S. Rosenthal Lith., Red Lion Square, Holborn, London.
- Historical Dedication: Officially dedicated by permission to Rowland Hill, Esq., General Post Office (creator of the uniform penny postage and the Penny Black).