This Victorian era paperclip or letter holder is the perfect item for a true romantic. Cupid stands in the center of the clip, holding a mail carrier’s bag full of love letters. He holds an envelope in his hand, and roses dot the sky above him and the ground below him. His wings peek over his shoulders, giving him the ability to take flight at any moment. The clip has two tones of metal. The front has a brown patina that is highlit nicely to bring out cupid’s form; the back is brass with a gilt finish and a textured base that holds letters or papers in place. The clip is still functioning: it has a firm grip and a hole at the top that allows the clip to be hung up on a wall.
Writing letters was an important part of life in the Victorian era. Developments in the postal service, and the introduction of The Penny Post, made sending letters cheaper and easier than ever before. Letter writing accessories, like these paper clips, were popular household items that have been left behind as treasures from the era. These clips are still functional and make excellent home or office decorations. We have several in our collection, each with its own unique style and design.
This piece would be lovely hung up in a kitchen or office as a catchall for papers, notes, recipes, and receipts, or hung up outside near the front door for outgoing mail. It could also sit on a desk to help keep paperwork organized.
The clip is 3 1/2” x 2” x 3/4” and weighs 32 grams.
Circa 1890’s.
