Card, valentine card

Valentine's card with rectangular shaped central panel on which is applied a paper hand holding an embossed and coloured bunch of flowers. Under this bouquet is applied an oval shaped coloured paper illustration of a cupid with white fabric leaf and silver paper lace border. At the bottom of the card is applied an arrangement of fabric and paper flowers. The card has an outer white lace paper border.

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.