Bundle Valentine. "Sweetest of creatures to thee I send, This knot of love which hath no end, To let you know my love is true, And that to none alive but you... " (text from central knot)

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  SKU: 71446

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• ARTIST:

• MEDIUM: Printed cotton,

  DATE: c. 1800.

• EDITION SIZE: Fabric size 22 x 24" (525 x 615 mm).

• DESCRIPTION: This unusual Valentine is believed to have come from Salam MA. Two different kinds of materials were used in the making of the late 18th early 19th century Bundle Valentine's. Those printed on silk were given from a man to a woman, and those printed on cotton, which were given from a woman to a man, often Seafarers. The cotton cloth was found to be stronger 'to bundle up' meaningful personal possessions. The name 'Lydia Peckham' is embroidered in thin black thread. Each of the four corners as well as the four decorative botanical borders has a different pattern. Four verses of poem are printed in the four scrolls. 1. "On February, the thirteenth day, my Valentine I drew; When everyone did choose his love, My choice it fell on you. 2. As sure as grapes grow on the vine, I drew thee for my Valentine; The lotts were cast and I then drew, And fortune granted it to be you. 3. Therefore, if you do me respect, My valentine you will accept; But if that you do me disdain, Return my Valentine again. 4. As compliments I ne'er could use, Since that my offer you refuse, Pray for my boldness me excuse."

• ADDITIONAL INFO: This printed textile is laid on a silk backing. Framed in 1" silver lacquer and finished with glass.

• CONDITION: Fair. the fabric is worn through in a few areas - the lower left corner 3/4 x 1 3/4" is missing & restored. Overall the printed area is faded.

• REFERENCE: F. Staff, The Valentine & It's Origins. R. W. Lee, A History of Valentines.

• CATEGORIES: 18th-19th Century Subjects , Valentine