a Daily Illustrated Newsmagazine
'Excelsior' was somewhat of a hybrid publication; more than a daily newspaper but not quite a full-fledged news-magazine. It was rather a large and profusely illustrated daily publication on newspaper quality stock. It grew from 8 pages to 16 later in the war, featuring a proportionately high number of photographs in each issue, many not seen in other newspublications at the time. This was partly because readers were encouraged to send in newsworthy photographs of their own, for which they would of course be handsomely paid. Fervently patriotic as is to be expected of French publications during the war, 'Excelsior' featured many striking photographs of other Allied troops and of events on all fronts. Being a daily publication, it is to be expected that many photographs and articles are of anecdotale interest only, most aimed at boosting morale on the home front and providing suitably inspiring patriotic motivation. Even so, 'Excelsior' gives a good view of what was to be found in daily newspapers.
The wealth of photographic material in 'Excelsior' is probably what prompted contemporary Great War purchasers to save issues in large numbers, which was generally not the case with other daily newspapers. This is probably why (large or small) collections of 'Excelsior' can still be found for purchase in this present time.
* see photographs from 'Excelsior' on 'the Siege of Antwerp' / 'the Siege of Przemysl' / the Battle of Verdun
two coverpages showing French soldiers at home (left) and in the trenches (right)
