1860’s Valentine w/Envelope - Embossed & Gilded Paper Lace

I love to to find an early valentine that has its original envelope. I feel very fortunate to be able to offer a number of them this year. This valentine was given to Master Charlie Gilman as penciled on the envelope The envelope is intricately embossed with a pattern similar to that of some of the small Windsor lace valentines. No year is indicated but the pattern of the envelope embossing and the style of the valentine would indicate the 1860’s.

The valentine is a single, unmarked, embossed and gilded paper lace sheet measuring 5” x 7 ½”. It is embellished with a silver Dresden cupid. The center features a silk oval with a printed message surrounded by a Dresden laurel leaf wreath. The message reads:

Childe Gently
If for a fault you e’re would chide a friend/ Do it in person, ne’er a message send;
A just rebuke from those that we revere, If kindly given any one may hear.
I’ve known a message full of best intentions,
Delivered wrong, breed nothing but dissentions
And many a word in innocence delivered,
The friendship of a life has rudely severed.

Perhaps Master Charlie needed a reminder to watch his tone!

The valentine was folded several times to fit into the envelope. Otherwise it is in excellent condition although it appears that its Dresden cupid was never completely silvered. Please examine the photos and feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

While you are here, do enjoy the other valentine related items I have available for sale at this time. Thank you for visiting my shop today.