I'm looking for some of our regulars -- do you think the time change is why they're not here?

Could be Nancy. Here in the East we're getting ready for dinner. Out further west some are getting kids off the bus. But there are at least a couple of people lurking.

What are "cobwebs"?

Thank you .. j

The cobweb is a circular cutwork like a spiral -- when you pull a thread from the center -- it lifts to reveal an image inside -- it's also called a beehive or a flower cage. It's another of the mechanicals -- but I also think of it as a type of puzzle Valentine

Displaying Valentines can be a lot of fun. Delicate, rare pieces need archival protection and filtered light -- but proper framing can enable you to enjoy them on the walls. Bright colored chromolithographed pieces don’t readily fade, and can be placed in shadow boxes, framed, or sometimes placed beneath a pane of class on a coffee table -- to be enjoyed. If you want to try it -- be sure to have “risers” at the corners of the glass, so the glass doesn’t touch the paper and damage it. The conventional easels and glass cabinets are always wonderful...and it’s nice to rotate the pieces to avoid stress on the paper.

Does it make a difference if the Valentine is signed or not? My favorites are from my aunts and uncles and Mom to my grandfather all signed by them in the 20's. I've got them in a frame with acid free paper. (thanks for your advice years ago :0)

I have a valentine marked "Ent at Sta Hall Sept 1959" The Portobello Road dealer I bought it from says that is Stationary Hall. I'd never heard that before, can you tell me more about it? j

It's wonderful when they're signed -- it completes the "picture" and you know their story -- you're very lucky to have them!

I know a good framer!

The details are just beautiful! What would something like that have cost a young fellow back then? I bet the young lady fell head over heels in love with him when she got it! I sure would! They are just so romantic looking!

Lott -- I'm sure you do great archival framing -- if you weren't so busy posting my images -- I'd ask more qyestions! Be sure to keep your pieces out of the sun, too -- it will discolor them, fade them, and make them deteriorate very quickly.