Identifying document for foreigner ("carte d’identité d’étranger"), issued for the Jewish woman Tauba Wajman. Isère (France), 1941. French.
An identifying document issued in 1941 for the Jewish woman Tauba Wajman, with her photo (in profile), personal details, and the inked stamps of the Vichy French authorities in the administrative district of Isère. On the third page, next to the name and identifying particulars, appearing in red, is the inked stamp with the French appellation "Juif".
Identifying documents of the type known as "carte d’identité d’étranger" were issued in France as early as 1917, and were thought to be the earliest documents issued by any country for the purpose of identifying foreigners. Because of a shortage of paper during World War II, the Vichy French authorities made use of old forms bearing the name and emblem of the Free French Republic, namely the words "Republique Francaise" encircling the emblem in the image of Marianne, the national personification of the French Republic and its motto, "Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité".
Approx. 12 cm (document folded in accordion-like fashion). Good-fair condition. Stains. Blemishes and wear. Minor tears to edges and to fold line between first part (serving as the binding) and rest of document.