Valentine 1850 - 1870

This Valentine is an anonymous token of affection, made from paper, and now part of the Met's collection. It’s a fascinating example of so-called "cutwork," created by intricately slicing away areas of paper to form a delicate, lace-like design. The effect is achieved through painstaking labor, like embroidery or filigree. The maker has created a scene with trees, lovers, birds, and a lyre - all symbols of romance. What I find really interesting is the contrast between the time-intensive craft of cutwork, and the commercial context of Valentine's Day. Back then as now, it’s a holiday driven by the mass production of cards and gifts. This Valentine stands apart. Its handmade quality suggests a deeply personal connection. It speaks to the enduring human desire to express love through skilled making, challenging the divide between heartfelt craft and manufactured sentimentality.