Mine Heart for Thine

Valentine's card with the front formed from two layers of decorative lace and embossed paper. The bottom layer has a lace-paper border and embossed central panel. In the centre is an oval shaped decoration of cotton net or lace and metal foil tinsel. Applied to the centre of the decoration is a metal foil medal with red cotton ribbon. Also applied to this layer is a 'scrap' coloured paper garland and a cherub 'scrap'. The top layer is also of lace paper decorated with embossed medallion and plaque decorations of classical figures. Applied to the central panel is a coloured bouquet of flowers. A heart shaped 'scrap' below is marked 'My Heart for Thine'. On the back of this layer is handwritten 'from dear papa 1866'

The introduction of the penny post in 1840 meant sending cards became easier and cheaper. A thriving business developed in central London producing cards and card components. This card was originally in the collection of Jonathan King, a stationer and newsagent who ran his own business making cards on Essex Road.