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White Doves, Pretty Ladies and Mischievous Cupids: Valentine's Day Postcards
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A “Heart” Shot, Late 19th Century
Unknown Artist; United States of America
Paper and Ink
31055.4
Gift of Mrs. John S. Helmken
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To My Valentine, Late 19th Century
Unknown Artist; Printed in Germany
for the International Art
Publishing Company, United States of America
Paper and ink
31055.8
Gift of Mrs. John S. Helmken
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These postcards pictured here were printed in Germany by the International Art Publishing Company which had firms in Berlin and New York City. The postcards were then sold in the United States, as was common at the time. The artists for these portrayed cards are unknown, though some well-known illustrators of the time did create for this company. The choice in imagery plays on the archetypes of Valentine’s Day themes, including cupid characters up to mischief, white doves flying, or ideal images of pretty ladies on the receiving end of these cards. German publishing firms such as the International Art Publishing Company were the most renowned for holiday cards and designs during this time period.
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| To the One I Love, Late 19th Century Unknown Artist; Printed in Germany for the International Art Publishing Company, United States of America 31055.9 Gift of Mrs. John S. Helmken |
Currently, Valentine’s Day has decreased in popularity in European countries, even though the holiday's practices originated in countries like England, France and Germany. As we can see in the United States, the holiday remains to be ever popular stateside.
Text and images may be under copyright. Please contact Collection Department for permission to use. Information subject to change upon further research.
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