Advertising leaflet of fur business H. Mittler, hotel Au Tigre Royal and Antwerp cinemas. Collection

The prewar fur conservation business H. Mittler, the esteemed hotel Au Tigre Royal, and the array of cinemas listed in the collection leaflet represent prominent establishments in the bustling city of Antwerp during the early 20th century. These businesses played significant roles in shaping the economic, social, and cultural landscape of the city, each contributing to its vibrant atmosphere and commercial vitality. H. Mittler was a well-known fur conservation business operating in Antwerp before the outbreak of World War II. Specializing in the preservation and maintenance of fur garments, H. Mittler likely served a clientele ranging from affluent individuals to furriers and fashion houses, catering to the city's thriving fur trade industry. Au Tigre Royal was a distinguished hotel located in the heart of Antwerp, renowned for its luxurious accommodations and impeccable service. As a premier destination for travelers and visitors to the city, Au Tigre Royal played a pivotal role in Antwerp's hospitality sector, providing lodging, dining, and entertainment for guests from around the world. The list of cinemas featured in the collection leaflet reflects the rich cinematic tradition of Antwerp during the prewar era. From grand theaters to neighborhood cinemas, these establishments offered a diverse selection of films, catering to the varied tastes of Antwerp's residents and visitors. Cinemas served as popular gathering places for socializing and leisure activities, contributing to the city's vibrant cultural scene. During the bombing attacks on Antwerp during the Second World War, Cinema Rex was destroyed by a V2 bomb.

On 19 December 2023 Herman Van Goethem kindly permitted Kazerne Dossin to archive and digitise one advertising leaflet. Herman had come to Kazerne Dossin that day to record the name of Herman Susskind for the Every Name Matters project. Herman Van Goethem is a Belgian historian and academic specializing in Holocaust studies and Belgian history. He held the position of rector at the University of Antwerp, where he focused on initiatives aimed at enhancing academic standards and fostering international collaboration within the institution. Van Goethem has authored numerous publications, including books and articles, exploring various aspects of World War II, such as the Holocaust, resistance movements, and post-war reconstruction in Belgium. He is acknowledged for his contributions to scholarly research and public discourse on historical memory and commemoration.

Herman Van Goethem