The 'vinegar valentines', which became popular in the 1840s, are on display at the Museum of East Dorset. They are part of a display of 350 rare Victorian valentine cards.

Printed Valentine cards first appeared in the 18th century, simple sheets with a written verse. Soon afterwards the traditional symbols began to appear - Cupid, flowers and hearts.

Some vinegar valentines targeted suffragettes. The valentine on the left was printed in the 1840s, and the valentine on right was printed circa 1900. (Ken Florey Suffrage Collection/Gado/Getty Images) ...

From its early roots nearly 2,000 years ago, via celebrated poet Geoffrey Chaucer, and including the lacey Valentine’s cards of the Victorian era, it is still heralded as the most romantic day ...

For our Victorian ancestors, ... 'Vinegar Valentine's' cards were a kind of 19th Century-take on modern-day trolling. Some were sarcastic and playful, but others were just downright cruel.

Valentine’s Day means flowers, chocolate and picking out the perfect card to express your affection. We analyzed nearly 600 cards to spot trends about modern love.

From its early roots nearly 2,000 years ago, via celebrated poet Geoffrey Chaucer, and including the lacey Valentine’s cards of the Victorian era, it is still heralded as the most romantic day ...

Hearts and sours: The insulting art of Victorian 'Vinegar Valentine's' cards For our Victorian ancestors, February 14 was also a chance to insult and offend someone you really didn't like.