Thankfullness (valentine) 1860 - 1870

John Windsor's "Thankfullness (valentine)" is an intriguing artifact of popular culture, printed at an unknown date. This folded card, now preserved at the Art Institute of Chicago, offers a glimpse into the sentimental and aesthetic values of its time. During an era defined by rigid social norms, the exchange of valentines was an important moment for expressing emotions, especially for women. These tokens allowed a space to explore relationships within the confines of societal expectations. The imagery on the card is revealing: the horn of plenty overflows with fruit and an overflowing champagne glass, expressing prosperity and celebration. Meanwhile, floral motifs and inscriptions like "In fond remembrance" and "Forget me not" highlight themes of memory, fidelity, and delicate beauty. "A kiss" accompanied by a dove speaks to romantic and pure love. The card’s careful composition and decorative elements invite us to consider the ways in which emotions were carefully curated and presented, offering a fascinating intersection of personal expression and cultural performance.