Card, valentine card

Valentine's card of embossed and lace paper layers with applied decoration. The bottom layer is of light green and embossed with birds. Applied to the centre of this layer is a coloured paper image of a cherub scattering flowers amongst the clouds. The top layer of lace paper is light blue and embossed with flower and pillar decoration. In the centre is applied an oval frame of cotton, silver, white paper leaves and a garland of coloured and embossed paper leaves and flowers.

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.