Card, valentine card

Valentine's card composed of embossed and silver lace paper with a central panel of of watered silk. In the centre of this panel is applied a colour paper illustration of two birds surrounded by a gilt metal foil frame. Applied to the lace paper border are fabric and metal foil flowers and foliage.

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.