.Item Specifics

• ​Type: Handwritten Manuscript / Friendship Poem

• ​Date of Creation: February 4, 1850 (Mid-Victorian Era)

• ​Author / Signee: Sarah Appleford

• ​Recipient: Mary Towers

• ​Location / Origin: Cheshunt (Herts, UK)

• ​Medium: Ink on woven paper with hand-applied gold leaf / gilded scrap relief trims

• ​Dimensions: 33 cm × 28 cm

• ​Condition: Original antique condition. Displays natural age-related toning, foxing, and perimeter staining around the margins. Free from major tears or structural damage.

​Transcription

​"To Mary Towers"

​Should memory in my absence e'er decay,

And friendship's warm impressions fade away;

Oh; may this simple lay with magic art,

Recal my image fading from thy heart;

Revive affection should it e'er decline,

And while it pleads for my friendship,

Strengthen thine.

​Sarah Appleford

Cheshunt, Feb 4/50

​Item Description.

​This is a Victorian handwritten album leaf poem dated February 4, 1850, written from Cheshunt by Sarah Appleford to her friend Mary Towers.

​Historical Context

​During the Victorian era (particularly the 1840s–1860s), the tradition of compiling Friendship Albums or Sentiment Keepsakes was immensely popular among young women. Friends would write original or popular verses for one another as tokens of remembrance before parting ways or getting married.

​Decorative Details & Condition

• ​Gilded Accents: The page features two intricate, raised metallic gold-leaf (embossed scrap) cartouches with delicate floral motifs at the top and bottom margins, framing the copperplate calligraphy beautifully.

• ​Condition Notes: The leaf exhibits authentic mid-19th-century patina, including age spots (foxing) and soft staining around the perimeter. The ink script remains clear, legible, and dark, with the gilding retaining a bright, reflective shine.

​Measures 23 cm × 18 cm, making it a great piece for framing, historical display, or adding to an ephemera collection.