Believe I love thee my dear Valentine

Handfinished Valentine's card comprising three layers of embossed lace paper. The top two layers are identical and comprise lace paper embossed with a design incorporating shells, coral and foliage. These layers, by Joseph Mansell, are formed from one sheet folded down the centre, the central panels are open revealing decoration below and the top sheet is part gilded. Applied to the second layer is a garland of embossed, coloured paper flowers and leaves. The third layer which is attached by paper springs and hinges is by Kershaw & Son. This comprises a sheet of white lace paper elaborately embossed with mythological & classical sea creatures and figures. A central oval panel is surrounded by a wreath of embossed shells. Applied to this panel a cut out paper illustration of a floral bouquet.