Comic Valentine, "A Beau on the Ice You Will Never Entice," circa 1895

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Artifact Overview

From the 1840s into the early 1900s, some people sent inexpensive Valentine's Day greetings that chided, warned, or insulted the recipient. An exaggerated, often garish cartoon and short verse described and dismissed someone's looks, intelligence, personality, or behavior. Within the atmosphere of a festive holiday, under the cover of humor, these "vinegar valentines" were acceptable critiques of behaviors that deviated from social norms.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Comic valentine

Date Made

circa 1895

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

86.9.32.63

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Paper (Fiber product)

Technique

Printing (Process)

Color

Multicolored

Dimensions

Height: 9.625 in
Width: 7.125 in

Inscriptions

printed on front: A BEAU ON THE ICE YOU WILL NEVER ENTICE. No man's in danger where you are-- Good reason why--all keep afar. You're better than a danger sign, To scare the males from danger's line.