Valentine - Mechanical, layers of roses 1870 - 1880

This "Valentine - Mechanical, layers of roses" is an anonymous artwork residing in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It offers us a peek into the sentimental culture of its time. The image presents a young girl surrounded by roses, and the words "You alone I admire" are framed above. Who was this valentine intended for, and what expectations of love and courtship did it carry? The anonymity of the artist invites us to consider broader societal attitudes towards love and affection, as well as gender roles during the time this card was produced. The layers of roses and mechanical elements point to the labor and artistry involved in creating these tokens of affection. This resonates with the emotional labor often associated with romantic relationships. How do we navigate the complexities of love, identity, and societal expectations reflected in this Valentine?