Charming 19th C. Watercolor Folk Out Envelope / Love Token

Regular price $35.00

Found in the same spot as the watercolor of houses I just listed, this one was quite a surprise and delight to find as well. I've been forever hoping to find a very elaborate fold out love token (I've included an image of an extraordinary 18th c. example for reference) and this is the very closest I've come, I believe likely dating to the 1830s or so.  It folds up into an envelope, with the point of the flap slipping neatly under the gold cut paper strip to secure it, then unfolds to reveal a verse inside: "If knife or pin should hand or face offend. This little case its healing help will lend."  Which makes me wonder if it was delivered along with some sort of medicinal salve or magical potion??? Of course I love the thought of that, and just the existence of this, so lovely--and perhaps just the right inspiration for delivering tiny gifts in beautiful packages!

Open: 7” x 6 3/4”; closed 2 7/8” x 2 5/8” . Very good condition, some toning that I don't think detracts, no tears or losses.