One last Victorian paper lace valentine today, because 'tis almost valentine season, and what a lovely thing to give to a beloved, including oneself. I'm fussy about ones I like, choosing this and several sold last week from more than a hundred 19th c. examples that had been collected over many years by a major Maine based paper dealer, whose collection was not long ago acquired by another Maine dealer and friend. This one c. 1840s, with the pansies painted in watercolor, framed by a finely detailed, embossed cartouche. 

7 1/4" x 4 5/8" as folded. Good antique condition, minor toning /soiling, small loss to upper left corner. Watercolor on embossed white laid paper, blank interior