Valentine

The custom of sharing valentines dates to the 17th century. By the mid-19th century, it had become a popular tradition thanks to advances in printing and paper-making techniques and the development of an efficient and inexpensive means of postal delivery. Around 1850, Saint Valentine's Day was celebrated across all strata of soceity with parties, balls, and the quintessential elaborate paper greetings that became the veritable hallmark of British and American Victorian life. This example, possibly published by the New York-based publishing firm McLoughlin Brothers, represents the type of mid-range valentine that would have been shared and collected by the masses. McLoughlin was known for its production of valentines in the multi-layered style with die-cut embellishments that mark this example.