19th Century Cut-Paper German Love Letter

Item Details

Ink

A 19th century cut-paper love letter written in German. This creative piece, dated ‘February 21, 1868’ was allegedly written by a young woman for the man she loves, and is arranged around the edges of a floral shape, meant to be read in a spiraling clockwise fashion. The letter features carefully-cut detailing and scattered areas of color, and includes a rough translation of the original Old German, as well as a letter of notes from the translator.
The letter is mounted under protective glazing with letters and numbers written in marker to its surface as a guide on how to read the writing. It is presented in a wooden frame that is wired for hanging.

Condition

- discoloration and water spots throughout ground; tearing and loss of trim to edges; visible crease marks throughout letter; adhesive residue throughout due to apparent previous repairs; wear and nicks to edges of frame; punctures throughout backing paper on verso of frame.

Dimensions

- measures frame; letter measures 12.0" W x 12.0" H.

Item #

18DEN037-243