Happy the State (valentine), c. 1842. Creator: Unknown

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Happy the State (valentine), c. 1842. Creator: Unknown

Happy the State (valentine), c. 1842....when souls congenial burn / With mutual fires, and love for love return. / When each new day Love's growing charms beholds. / New bliss imparts, and new delights unfolds. / When rob'd in truth, and softness void of art, / The Lovers feel the tender constant heart. / Then Bless descends - love's sweetest rapture warm / Peace beams around - and fled is each alarm

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Media ID 36264969

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Allegorical Amorini Arbour Bow And Arrow Card Cherubim Cupid Ephemera Poem Pointing Romance Romancing Valentine Valentines Card Allegorical Figure Angelic Cherubs Hand Tinted Putti

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> Arts > Literature

> Arts > Realistic drawings > Figure drawing > Fine art portraits

EDITORS COMMENTS
This enchanting 19th-century valentine, titled 'Happy the State (Valentine)', is an exquisite example of allegorical art from an unknown artist. The image features two cherubs, or Amorini, in a romantic garden setting. One cherub, identified as 'Happy', holds a bow and arrow, symbolizing the power of love, while the other cherub, 'State', points to a poem inscribed on a scroll. The poem reads, 'when souls congenial burn / With mutual fires, and love for love return. / When each new day Love's growing charms beholds. / New bliss imparts, and new delights unfolds. / When rob'd in truth, and softness void of art, / The Lovers feel the tender constant heart. / Then Bless descends - love's sweetest rapture warm / Peace beams around - and fled is each alarm.' This lithograph with hand coloring on ivory wove paper transports us to a time when love was celebrated with poetic fervor. The cherubs, with their angelic features and gesturing hands, evoke a sense of joy and romance. The garden setting, adorned with flowers and greenery, adds to the idyllic atmosphere. The use of color and hand tinting enhances the visual appeal, making it a desirable collectible for art enthusiasts and lovers of literature. This artwork is a testament to the artistic school of the 19th century, where allegory and symbolism were popular themes. It is a reminder of the enduring power of love and the beauty of poetry. The image is believed to have originated from Britain or England, and its exact provenance remains a mystery. Today, it is a cherished addition to the collections of many art institutions, including the Art Institute of Chicago, where it continues to inspire and delight visitors.

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