Blonde China Head "Pet Name" Doll

For a break from all the valentine posts, here's a much-loved toy: a 14 inch china head doll with the rarer blonde hairdo. She's from a series of dolls made in Germany by Hertwig from the 1890s - early 1900s with their names factory-painted on their shoulderplates. This one is "Agnes," and, as can be seen from her raggedy body, she was much-loved by her young owner. Miraculously, her head has remained intact and lovely after all these years...

 

 

Antique Auto Valentine

Here's a really lovely 1930s valentine: an old roadster complete with a chauffeur transports two young lovers to their romantic destination.

Novelty Nose Valentine

This is one of the most unusual valentines in my collection: an actual pair of wire and cloth "funny nose glasses" adorn the odd lady on this 1960s card:

Mechanical Buzz Saw Valentine

Here's an odd, but fun, mechanical valentine, from the 1930s or 40s. You can actually spin the buzz saw around to torment the little man if you want.

Magician Valentine

My sweetie is a magician, which of course makes me very partial to magic themed valentines. This large mechanical card from the 1950s features a magician and his lovely assistant, who floats high above the stage.