Card, valentine card

Small valentine's card of lace paper with four embossed figures. Part gilded and part painted a light green. The front of the card is divided down the centre, each side of the lace paper has been folded in two from the centre. When openend out each side of the lace paper reveals two figures, one female one male. The inner cartouche comprises yellow paper printed 'A valentine this day receive, A trifling boon - but oh believe The Donor's heart sincere. May heaven , all bounteous, deign to bless Thee with increasing happiness Through each succeeding year'. This paper panel is bordered by embossed coloured flower garland 'scraps'.

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