Valentine 1845 - 1865

Editor: So, here we have "Valentine," an anonymous piece dating from between 1845 and 1865, currently residing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It looks to be primarily made of paper, incorporating drawing, relief, print, and ornamental elements. It feels almost ghostly with the overall white color. I'm curious, how do you interpret this work, especially considering its historical context? Curator: This is more than just a pretty picture, it's an intimate glimpse into 19th-century social practices around courtship. Valentine cards were part of a formalized ritual. Look at the delicate paper lace and embossed designs. Consider the time invested in creating and sending this; it elevated personal relationships and declarations of love to something akin to public performance, within strict social constraints, of course. Editor: That's interesting. So, it's not just about romance, but also about adhering to certain social expectations? Curator: Precisely. These weren't just tossed off; they signified social status and performative acts of romance and gentility. What message were senders trying to convey with this blend of vulnerability and artistry? Did mass production undermine or enhance the individual sentiment intended in creating or gifting such an artwork? What can you find in the imagery that gives it away? Editor: I hadn’t considered the mass-produced element. Seeing the romantic undertones through the lens of social constructs is eye-opening. Thanks for this! Curator: You're welcome. Thinking about the social forces behind these beautiful objects transforms how we see them today, isn't it?