Home > Special Days > Valentine's Day
Semaphore. Edwardian Valentine card depicting a cherub sending the message
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Semaphore. Edwardian Valentine card depicting a cherub sending the message
Semaphore. Edwardian Valentine card depicting a cherub sending the message I love you in semaphore.Date: circa 1905
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14224556
© Mary Evans Picture Library/Peter & Dawn Cope Collection
Cherub Depicting Message Semaphore Sending Valentine
EDITORS COMMENTS
This enchanting Edwardian valentine card, dated circa 1905, features a charming scene of a cherub sending the message "I love you" in semaphore. The semaphore flags, which were popularized during the late 18th and early 19th centuries as a long-distance communication method, add an element of romance and intrigue to this delightful design. The cherub, a mythological figure often associated with love and affection, sends his message with grace and elegance, using the flags to create the letters I-L-O-V-E and the hearts symbol. The soft pastel colors and intricate detailing of the card's border further emphasize its romantic theme. Semaphore, an optical signaling system that used flags or paddles to transmit messages, was a popular form of long-distance communication during the 18th and 19th centuries. It was particularly favored by the military and naval forces for its speed and efficiency. However, it also found its way into popular culture, including this beautiful Edwardian valentine card. The semaphore system required a clear line of sight between the signalers and the use of a standardized code to transmit messages. The flags were held horizontally or vertically to represent different letters and numbers. The system could transmit messages up to 20 miles (32 kilometers) with the naked eye and up to 30 miles (48 kilometers) with the use of telescopes. This semaphore-themed valentine card is a beautiful example of the romantic and whimsical designs that were popular during the Edwardian era. It invites us to imagine a time when long-distance communication was an exciting and romantic adventure, and the simple act of sending a message could express the depth of one's love.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
