Valentine 1874

This Valentine was designed by Kate Greenaway, most likely around the turn of the 19th century. The card presents a tableau of childhood affection, framed by an idealized vision of nature. Notice the careful arrangement of elements: text, illustration, and floral motifs create a layered composition, where each element supports the theme of romantic innocence. The use of soft, pastel colors reinforces this sentiment, evoking a sense of gentleness. Greenaway’s style reflects an embrace of Romanticism, particularly in the use of natural imagery. The verses are positioned at the heart of the card. Here, the form of the written word mirrors the artwork's visual harmony and the way language is deployed, contributing to the overall construction of an idealized vision of love. The lace trim borders the edges of the card to suggest delicacy. The card ultimately functions as a cultural artifact reflecting Victorian ideals of love and beauty.