Untitled Valentine (Reclining Couple with Putti)
1860/69
Medium
Collaged elements on cut and embossed (designed) ivory wove paper
Dimensions
Folded sheet: 8.1 × 13 cm (3 1/4 × 5 1/8 in.)
Classification
collage
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
128980
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Art of Chicago's Prints and collection, *Untitled Valentine (Recl Couple with Putti)* Berlin and Jones (ca. 1860–69) is a charming example of Victorian-era romantic artistry. This intimate collage, folded to a petite 8.1 × 13 cm, depicts a reclining couple encircled by playful putti—cherubic figures symbolizing love and mischief. Crafted on ivory wove paper, it like a tender surprise, revealing layered scenes of affection amid floral motifs. The work showcases innovative 19th-century papercraft techniques: meticulously cut, embossed, and collaged elements create a three-dimensi...