This is a cast of a beautiful Victorian mourning hand brooch that I have in my own private collection. It is one of the most detailed and full of symbolism that I own.
It was faithfully cast by hand using age old techniques.
Mourning hands were worn in Victorian times to indicate the loss of a loved one. They can often tell us much about the departed soul and the relationship they had to the wearer.
This mourning hand is holding a mourning dove. While the mourning dove is often a symbol of sorrow and mourning, it symbolizes the same things as its white dove cousin. The mourning dove is, above all other symbolism, a spiritual messenger of peace, love, and faith.
The mourning doves breast is pieced with an arrow. Perhaps one of cupids own arrows?
There is ivy around the hand. Ivy symbolises fidelity (it won't easily let go of something it's attached itself to) and eternal life (because the plant is evergreen).
There is also wheat ears along the bottom of the hand.. This symbolises the heavenly reward that awaits the deceased in heaven. Reaping what you sow and enjoying the fruits of a life well lived.
This is made from solid sterling silver and has a nice weight to it. The back is flat to allow it to sit well on the neck. The back is marked with .925 and SWALK. So you know your piece is an original SWALK piece.
The mourning hand is attached to sterling silver Belcher (Rolo) chain. This chain measures 1.4mm and is simple enough not to detract from the hand.
You can choose the length of chain you require in the menu during the checkout process.
The chain is fastened with a lobster clasp and also has a 'SWALK' tag on it.
The mourning hand measures 43mm in length.
The chain was oxidised to give it an antique patina and to highlight all the details, and then it was polished by hand to a subtle shine.
any questions? please do not hesitate to ask.