Prang's Valentine Cards AD, Woman & Cherubs

The year was 1883, a time of gilded elegance and societal rigidity. Yet, amidst the Victorian splendour, a revolutionary image emerged, challenging the norms of the era. It was an advertisement for Prang's Valentine cards, a piece of art that dared to depict a world beyond the pale. - At its heart was a woman, her form ethereal and serene. In her arms, she cradled a cluster of cherubic figures, each a symbol of innocence and purity. But one cherub, distinct from the rest, was a child of colour, his skin a rich ebony, his eyes wide and full of life. - This audacious portrayal, a stark departure from the prevailing artistic conventions, sparked a ripple of curiosity and controversy. Some hailed it as a progressive step, a testament to the growing awareness of diversity. Others, however, viewed it with suspicion, a radical departure from the accepted norms of beauty and representation. - The advertisement, a fleeting moment in time, captured the essence of a changing world. It was a reminder that art, like life itself, is a tapestry woven from threads of countless hues. And sometimes, the most beautiful patterns emerge from the most unexpected combinations. - "Prang's Valentine cards". 1883 Advertisement for Prang's greeting cards, This work is in the public domain in the United States because it was published (or registered with the U.S. Copyright Office) before January 1, 1927.