This postcard advertises a series of performances presented by Family Dog and the Common on the Great Highway in San Francisco, California, on November 7, 8, and 9, 1969. Measuring approximately 5.25 x 8.5 inches, the postcard promotes The Velvet Underground alongside other acts, including Danny Cox, Maximum Speed, Garden of Delight, and John Adam. While the artist behind the design is unknown, this striking image became notable as it was later used for The Bootleg Series Volume 1: The Quine Tapes.
The postcard features a visually arresting design, dominated by a textured, translucent object—possibly a light fixture or a decorative glass element—rendered in black and green tones. Through the glass, an enigmatic face peers out, creating a surreal, slightly mysterious effect that aligns well with the avant-garde ethos of The Velvet Underground. The blending of the green overlay with the monochromatic base adds depth and intrigue to the composition.
Text is arranged along the edges of the card in a minimalist, modern style, listing the lineup and event details. The design notes that the “Weekend Passage begins at 8:30” with tickets priced at $2.50. The postcard’s simplicity is complemented by the subtle complexity of its imagery, emphasizing both the experimental nature of the performances and the creative spirit of the Family Dog productions.
This postcard is a rare artifact from The Velvet Underground’s later period, marking their transition into the 1970s while maintaining their association with experimental venues and countercultural events. Its repurposing for The Quine Tapes underscores its enduring visual and historical significance.