St. Valentine's Day – The Old Story in All Lands (from "Harper's Weekly," Vol. XII) 1868

This is Winslow Homer’s 1878 print, "St. Valentine's Day – The Old Story in All Lands" made for "Harper's Weekly." It illustrates the universality of love across cultures and time periods. Published in the late 19th century, this image reflects a growing interest in global cultures, but also highlights the era's approach to cultural representation. We see a central American couple surrounded by figures in varied historical and cultural attire, signifying love’s presence “in all lands.” Homer’s illustration participates in the then-current vogue for exoticism and the comparative study of world cultures, as promoted by institutions like world-fair exhibitions. Prints such as these offer valuable insights into the period's social attitudes, including its fascination with and, at times, stereotyping of diverse cultures. To better understand this image, one could consult archives of "Harper's Weekly" and publications from comparative anthropology. Approaching art history through such resources helps us understand the dialogues between art, culture, and society.