Hasta La Ideas

It’s shocking how far communication has come since, let’s say, the 1800’s. What is now a quick text (or even more succinct emoji) was once a painstakingly designed piece of paper that relied on analog means to delight the receiver. Calling cards were the media of choice for Victorians looking to make an impression. When arriving in a new town, leaving for a trip, searching for a daughter’s suitor or simply introducing themselves to someone from a distance, these elaborately decorated cards not only conveyed information but also signified class—especially if you shelled out the extra dough for some border fringe). From hidden sayings and intricately placed names to “Victorian scraps,” check out some of these crazy-detailed artifacts of communication from yesteryear:

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