Can You See Me in Despair? (Valentine)
c. 1840
Medium
Lithograph with hand-coloring on cut and embossed ivory wove paper (lace)
Dimensions
Folded sheet: 14.2 × 9.5 cm (5 5/8 × 3 3/4 in.)
Classification
valentine
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
75810
Art Historical Context
Created around 1840 by George Meek, "Can You See Me in Despair? (Valentine)" offers a tender glimpse into early Victorian romantic customs. This small folded sheet, classified simply as a valentine, was designed to convey heartfelt messages of longing during an era when such tokens became cherished expressions of affection between loved ones. Measuring just 14.2 by 9.5 centimeters, the piece showcases the intricate craftsmanship of its time through lithograph printing with hand-coloring on ivory wove paper that has been delicately cut and embossed to mimic lace. This combination of mechanical...