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Georgian mourning miniature with mother and 2 children, rich in symbolism

 

Reference #: 9190

Status: layaway/sold

Dimensions: picture is approx. 5.5 inches square; miniature on ivory alone is 3.25 inches in diameter

Condition: excellent, no damage or restoration

Year: dated 1822

Price: $795 SOLD

Description: Superbly executed Georgian mourning miniature rich in symbolism.  On the tomb, we find a snake biting its tail representing eternal life; the butterfly, found inside the ring of the snake symbolizes the soul.  The young child is picking white roses, a symbol of purity and chase love.  The weeping willow tree shelters the tomb.  The mother, holding a baby in her arms, points out towards the sea and the horizon.  This symbolizes the departure of the lost baby into the other world. 
The mourning miniature is comprised of hair and paint applied to ivory.  This German miniature commemorates the death of a baby.   On the tomb, in hair, is written, "gebo. V August 1822; gest. IX Novb. 1822" (In English, born 5 August; died 9 Nov.1822).

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