Title

To My True Love

Caption

To My True Love, c1910. American Valentine card. Cupid dances on grass with naturalised Snowdrops and is playing a lyre of Bluebells. Above him are red hearts symbolising love and four-leafed Shamrock for luck. In the language of flowers the Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) stand for Consolation and the Blueball (Scilla noscripta) for Kindness. Shamrock or Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella) is a symbol of Ireland. The identity of St Valentine is uncertain, the most popular candidates are Valentine, bishop of Terni (3rd century) or a Roman Christian convert martyred c270). St Valentine's Day, celebrated on 14 February, probably replaces the Roman pagan festival of Lupercalia.

Info+

Photos12.com - Ann Ronan Picture Library

Credit line

Photo12/Ann Ronan Picture Library

Reference

ARP07102_390006408

License type

Rights managed

Available size

23,1Mb (2,4Mb) / 7,6in x 11,8in / 2282 x 3543 (300dpi)