Valentine 1880

This Valentine, an anonymous work held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is made from paper, with printed and embossed decoration. It is a celebration of intricate paper-cutting techniques. Look closely, and you'll see how the design is built up from multiple layers. Each of these would have required precision work, especially the delicate lace-like details that surround the central image of children exchanging gifts. The materials themselves—paper, ink, and glue—are relatively humble, but the level of skill and labor involved elevates them. Embossing also adds a tactile dimension, inviting the viewer to engage with the object through touch. Considered against the backdrop of its time, this Valentine speaks to a burgeoning culture of mass production and consumption. While the central image could be replicated relatively easily through printing, the labor-intensive paper cutting would have set it apart, signifying a higher degree of care. Ultimately, this Valentine reminds us that value isn't just about the cost of materials, but about the human touch and skilled making processes. It’s a reminder that even in a world of mass-produced goods, the mark of the hand can still hold profound meaning.