Vintage Valentines

Valentines from the early 20th century are a visual feast. Some are cleverly engineered with children or cherubs standing in front of free-standing arbors or entire gardens of too-large flowers. Others hearken back to the style of the mid-19th century. You could buy these confections ready-made in stores. Armies of women assembled the layers of colorful cards, intricate paper lace and carefully positioned scraps, working in what started out as cottage industries. It was one of the few ways a woman could earn some money. I think of the hands that, long ago, touched the lace and brushed the glue on the little embellishments. Sleekness and minimalism may be more modern but do frilly, lacy valentines ever go out of style?