Untitled Valentine (Two Birds) 1860s

This Valentine, decorated with two birds, was made by the Mullord Brothers using cut paper and color printing, and demonstrates the material and processes of production. Looking closely, the intricate patterns reveal the handwork involved. The paper cutting is incredibly detailed, demanding precision and patience, qualities often associated with craft traditions. Notice how the colorful layers of paper beneath the cut-outs create depth and contrast, emphasizing the delicate nature of the design. This technique of layering adds to the Valentine’s visual complexity, transforming a simple piece of paper into a multi-dimensional object. The mass production of Valentines reflects broader social and economic shifts, demonstrating how sentimental objects also relied on skilled labor and commercial enterprise. By understanding its creation, we see this Valentine not just as a token of affection, but as a product of its time.