Code: 12558
Dimensions:
An antique French 'Immortelle' glass beaded funerary wreath, late 19th Century, the glass beads in shades of lilac, purple and white on a lilac cotton thread and wirework frame, the centre with flowers within a shaped scrollwork border.
The word Immortelle translates as 'everlasting' and is used as a term for beaded funeral wreaths, popular in the late 19th century. Also known as 'Couronnes de Mortuare', they were made by small cottage industries in Italy, Germany and mainly France. They were made by women and children in their own homes, although it is also thought they were made by prisoners.
In very good condition, the flowers stand proud of the frame making the wreath three dimensional.
