Untitled Valentine (Country Girls with Dog)
1860/69
Medium
Gold paint with collaged elements on cut and embossed (designed) ivory wove paper
Dimensions
Folded sheet: 7 × 9.3 cm (2 13/16 × 3 11/16 in.)
Classification
collage
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
128975
Art Historical Context
Step into the sentimental world of Victorian romance with *Untitled Valentine (Country Girls with Dog)* created by Thomas Wood around 1860–69. This charming collage depicts two rural young women accompanied by a loyal dog, evoking the simple joys of countryside life and innocent affection. Folded to a petite 7 × 9.3 cm, it was likely designed as a personal token of love, unfolding to reveal its intricate details—a testament to the era's booming valentine tradition. Wood's masterful techniques shine in the use of gold paint layered with collaged elements on cut and embossed ivory wove paper. T...