Untitled Valentine (Heart on Fire) 1850s

"Untitled Valentine (Heart on Fire)" is a delicate and intricate Victorian-era Valentine's card created by John Windsor in the 1850s. This hand-cut paper artwork, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, showcases the exquisite artistry of paper cutting, a popular craft of the time. The card's design features a heart with flames atop a green background, surrounded by a wreath of white paper lace. The delicate paper lace, reminiscent of lace fabric, symbolizes the intricate details of love and courtship, a central theme of the Victorian era. The card serves as a reminder of the sentimentality and artistry associated with Valentine's Day celebrations in the 19th century.