Comic Valentine for a Marksman, circa 1855
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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 1855
Collection Title
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
89.0.540.702
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Paper (Fiber product)
Technique
Printing (Process)
Color
Multicolored
Dimensions
Height: 7.938 in
Width: 5.938 in
Inscriptions
printed on front:
No doubt, my dear friend, with your good rifled bore,
You could hit on the wing an old-fashioned barn door;
But when you attempt to pierce a girl's heart,
You will find you've attempted a difficult part.
So put down your rifle, you wall-eyed blockhead, you,
I rather would die an old maid than to wed you.
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