My Life I Dedicate to Thee (Valentine) c. 1840

This delicate Valentine, created by George Meek, is made from paper, but that's just the beginning of the story. Look closely, and you'll see a wealth of skilled techniques at play. The lacy border, meticulously punched, speaks to a history of highly specialized labor. Paper lace emerged as a cheaper substitute for the real thing, and was made using complex machinery or by hand using a needle. The central image, with its floral motif and heartfelt message, is a reminder of the intimate communication these cards facilitated. Note the contrast between the delicacy of the paper and the weight of the sentiment: "My life I dedicate to thee / And own myself no longer free!" Valentines like this were often produced in workshops, employing teams of workers to cut, print, and assemble them. So while we admire the beauty of this object, let's also consider the hands that brought it into being, and the social context of love, labor, and exchange in which it circulated. This card is a testament to how the everyday is imbued with art, craft, and human connection.