Victorian Mourning Hair Wreath with Wax Icon of St. Joseph and Jesus

Another one of the more unusual hair work pieces we have come across. Possibly created as a companion piece to this mourning wreath (and most likely crafted by the same person), this beautiful wreath centers around a wax icon of Saint Joseph holding the infant Jesus.  Saint Joseph is most commonly known as the patron saint of families, fathers and expecting mothers. However, he is also invoked for protection from sudden death, drowning, poisoning, being burned alive and being overtaken by an enemy. So the intended symbolism for using him as the centerpiece of this wreath is anyone's guess! Unfortunately, we do not have any information about to whom the hair utilized in this piece might have belonged to, but we can still appreciate the beauty and time it took to create such a thoughtful tribute to a lost loved one.  Additional Details Date: 1870s-1880s Materials: Human hair, wax, metal, glass, brass Measurements: 8.5" x 10"Markings: None Condition: Very Good.  Frame has some pittin