MOURNING OTTOMAN

plywood, foam, silk, felt, cotton buckram and synthetic hair, 17"h x 20" diameter

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This piece reflects the overindulgence and opulence, along with the attraction and repulsion of the mourning rituals of the Victorian era. After Prince Albert’s death, Queen Victoria went into deep mourning and performed elaborate commemorative rituals. Following her example, widows were expected to mourn for two years and restrict themselves to matte black clothing. While not exclusive to mourners, another sentimental Victorian custom was making elaborate jewelry or decorative items that used actual hair from a loved one. A figurative gesture is achieved through the use of humanized materials and over-ornamentation.