2 Classes of Visiting Cards in 1886

Washington’s unwritten laws of etiquette denoted two classes of visiting cards— “In all cases, a lady’s card is larger than a gentleman’s. Plain engraved cards indicate taste. Cards printed from movable type are not in good taste. Autograph or written cards are allowable among friends or on business.”

By the lex non scripta of Washington etiquette, visiting cards are grouped into two classes: 1. Cards of etiquette, used in official or social calls; 2. Cards of ceremony, applicable to invitations to official or social ceremonials. The styles of cards in use in official or social etiquette at the capital vary according to the tastes or whims of the season. 

In all cases, a lady’s card is larger than a gentleman’s. Plain engraved cards indicate taste. Cards printed from movable type are not in good taste. Autograph or written cards are allowable among friends or on business. A call not of ceremony upon the President admits the use of a written card—Boston Budget, 1886

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