Mechanical Valentine in the Shape of a Dog, "A Token of Affection," circa 1925
THF99124 / Mechanical Valentine in the Shape of a Dog, "A Token of Affection," circa 1925
01
Artifact Overview
The custom of sending messages of affection on February 14 dates back to Roman times, when mid-February was a time to meet and court prospective mates. The earliest American valentines were labors of love, handmade by the sender. The spread of commercially produced valentines in the second half of the nineteenth century made sending and receiving Valentine's Day cards a more lighthearted activity.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Valentine
Date Made
circa 1925
Subject Date
circa 1925
Place of Creation
Creator Notes
Created in Germany by an unidentifed maker
Collection Title
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
2008.103.12
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Virginia Kent Graybill
Material
Metal
Paper (Fiber product)
Technique
Die cutting
Color
Multicolored
Dimensions
Height: 5.5 in (irregular)
Width: 2.75 in (irregular)
Inscriptions
Printed on center heart: A token / of / Affection
Keywords |
|---|
02
Related Content
SetDogs & Puppies
- 21 Artifacts
Dogs guard, guide, hunt and herd, but they also entertain, inspire and offer comfort. In exchange for their pets' loyalty, owners provide room, board, and affection. Owners convey love and respect for their working dogs in personal ways, through portraits and photographs. And businesses capitalize on public affection for dogs and puppies by featuring them in advertisements and showcasing them on consumable products from tableware to trinkets.