The Victorians and people in past centuries were really big on what we today might consider morbid. Hair jewelry was particularly popular in those days (see first link below for historical information). They were not only keepsakes but served as mourning jewelry for the family and friends of the deceased.
There are some modern artisans who continue to create designs using human hair. Designer
Anna Schwamborn's pieces are a little more macabre as her creations are made not just from hair but incorporates the cremated ashes mixed in with black bone china (that's the black cylindrical parts).
Some of her designs include the black rosary beads and hair tassel necklace above. She also used tightly wrapped hair to create a unique focal.
She explains "the objects are supposed to be worn close to the body of the mourner symbolizing a lasting physical connection between two individuals even after death." Like the centuries old memento mori jewelry, her designs also remind people of their own mortality.
What do you think? Beyond morbid? Perhaps this is not the way to mourn if it promotes the holding on rather than letting go? Or would a lock of hair in a locket be more wearable?
Before You Go :
______________________________
Jewelry Making Tips -
Jewelry Business Tips 
No comments:
Post a Comment