Card, valentine card

Valentine's card formed from two layers of lace paper. The under layer comprises a plain central cartouche with lace paper border embossed with flower and foliage decoration. The top layer comprises a lilac and gilded lace paper border with central open panel to which is applied a coloured paper illustration of a young woman carrying a tray of tea. Applied to this are cotton fabric and embossed paper leaves and a scrap entitled 'Forget me not'.

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.