Illustrated Manuscript Valentine -

1860. Single leaf measuring 5 by 7 3/4 inches. A drawing of a young man and woman glancing shyly at each other, with their noses drawn in an angular fashion so as to point at each other. Below the figures is penned words "i cant [sic] stop long this time." A Feb. 25, 1861 inscription on the verso says "Valentine - Mr. Willis E. Marden." The young man wears simple clothing, a blue hat with a red band, a red shirt, and blue pants. His hair is long and curly. The woman's costume is more elaborate; she wears red shoes and a beaded necklace with her blue dress, and her uncovered hair is curled. The sheet of paper was once folded into quarters. Until postal rates became standardized, early valentines were typically folded, sealed, and hand-delivered to a beloved's doorstep. Pennsylvania-German or Dutch handmade valentines gained recognition for their fine workmanship, with detailed pinprick and cutout designs. This example is no less remarkable for its simplicity. Some faint discoloration, primarily to fold lines, and slightest wear to two corners.