Valentine 1874

This Valentine was created by the British artist Kate Greenaway, known for her illustrations and children's books, during the late 19th century. The artwork reflects the Victorian era's fascination with childhood, nature, and sentimental expression, all framed by a decorative sensibility that was typical of the period. The image uses a soft color palette and ornate borders which blend natural elements with idyllic scenes of children. This style, which draws on the aesthetics of the Arts and Crafts movement, was popular among the burgeoning middle class, who sought items that were both artistic and domestic. This speaks to the commercialization of art and the evolving role of women as both artists and consumers in a rapidly industrializing society. To fully understand Greenaway's work, we can consult periodicals and exhibition catalogs that recorded the artistic trends and social values of her time. By examining these resources, we can see how her art was shaped by, and in turn, helped shape, Victorian society.