Original 1923 Castols Fairy Tale Advert – “The Dreams of the Castols Kiddies” – Mounted Antique Print (13 x 24 cm)

Description

Original 1923 Castols Fairy Tale Advert – “The Dreams of the Castols Kiddies” – Mounted Antique Print (13 x 24 cm)

Description:

Step into the whimsical world of early 20th-century children’s health advertising with this charming 1923 Castols advert titled “The Dreams of the Castols Kiddies in the Land of Fairy Tales.” This delightful piece combines nursery-rhyme innocence with a clever marketing message for Castols Sweetmeat “biscuits” – a child-friendly alternative to dreaded castor oil.

Set in an enchanted forest with Bobbie Castol sitting at the base of a magical tree, this black-and-white illustrated ad offers a playful take on the fairy tale Babes in the Wood. The poetic jingle and nostalgic line “Nice as chocolate, no more castor oil!” show how Castols positioned itself as a revolutionary remedy for reluctant children.

Published by Thomas Kerfoot & Co. Ltd., Bardsley, Lancashire, this advert is a true reflection of 1920s medical and advertising trends, where storytelling was woven into product promotion for families.

🧾 Product Details:

• Advert Title: The Dreams of the Castols Kiddies in the Land of Fairy Tales

• Date: Circa 1923

• Mounted Dimensions: Approx. 13 x 24 cm

• Publisher / Manufacturer: Thomas Kerfoot & Co. Ltd., Bardsley, Lancashire

• Product Featured: Castols Sweetmeat Biscuits (alternative to castor oil)

• Visuals: Illustrated fairy-tale theme with children, owls, robins, and rhyme

• Slogan Highlight: “Nice as chocolate” – No more castor oil!

🧾 Condition Note:
This is an original vintage print over 100 years old, carefully mounted on black archival-grade board for preservation. As expected with antique ephemera, some signs of aging may be present such as mild yellowing, edge softening, or light surface marks—these are natural characteristics that enhance the item’s authenticity and charm.