Valentine 1875 - 1880

Editor: This is "Valentine," a drawing/print made anonymously between 1875 and 1880. It feels so whimsical and… well, definitely ornate! All those delicate, lacy details framing the dandy in pink! How would you interpret the symbolism here? Curator: Ah, a confection of imagery! Look closer – how does the central figure negotiate the symbols of love and war? "Having left Mars, for Cupid I seek promotion"—the banner states a career change of sorts. Editor: Right, shifting allegiance from Mars, the god of war, to Cupid, the god of love! Curator: Precisely! This "promotion" reflects not only the changing societal views on love and duty, but perhaps even individual emotional transitions. Notice how he holds his sword in a somewhat nonchalant fashion. Almost theatrical. Do you think it implies a real renunciation of aggression? Editor: I’m not sure! Maybe the dandy is playing with the idea of peace but still clings to the trappings of aggression? The lace surrounding him – what is its psychological impact, juxtaposed with his saber? Curator: The lace certainly softens the blow, so to speak. These opposing symbolic codes create a delightful tension. Victorian Valentines were complex; a confluence of idealised romance and social commentary. Editor: I guess it’s not as simple as a modern greeting card. So much is being communicated. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. A reminder that even the most seemingly simple image is embedded with cultural memory.