Victorian Freemason "Brother" Casket Plaque Apothecary This Barcley Corsetry Service sign

This Barcley Corsetry Service sign is likely from the 1920s or 1930s

bodies were no longer prepared at home but relegated to professional morticians

This highly decorative pin would have been presented to a member after completing his stint as Noble Grand

the auto vase was a bud vase designed to hold a small bouquet of sweet smelling flowers to help make unsavory car journeys more pleasant

which allowed the plaques to be cut into elaborate shapes and stamped with intricate designs and details

Victorian Freemason "Brother" Casket Plaque Apothecary This Barcley Corsetry Service signA heartbreaking, yet beautiful memento of a life cut short, coffin plates of dearly departed loved ones were often kept and displayed on parlor fireplace mantles and tables during the Victorian era. The practice of using casket plaques began in the 17th century and was primarily reserved for those of extreme wealth. By the 19th century, the use of casket plaques began to gain popularity in North America. Early plates were made by hand by a blacksmith