Death in the Victorian Era part 10: Mourning Cards

A tradition that has remained with us since the Victorian era, although somewhat altered and modernised, is the mourning card.

Traditionally, mourning cards were supplied by the undertaker. The cards were usually printed in black and silver on a white background, but depending on the status of the deceased, they could become quite ornate, with some examples featuring inset photographs. Most displayed traditional symbols of grief, such as crosses, female mourners, or one of the many other motifs that reminded the viewer of death.

The card featured the name of the deceased, sometimes their birth date, and details about the funeral. They were typically a standard size of around 3 by 4.5 inches. On occasion, they were sent to those who could not attend the funeral as a keepsake and a reminder to include the recently deceased in their prayers.

As mourning cards became increasingly popular, their appearance grew more elaborate. Some featured gold embossing, poems, prayers, artwork, or photographs of the deceased. Cards belonging to direct family members may also have contained a lock of the deceased's hair or a button from their clothing. The card and lock of hair would then be displayed in the home within a special frame or, in some cases, an elaborate mourning card stand.

By the early 1900s, mourning cards had become much simpler. 

With the advent of modern printing technology, today's cards often feature photographs, prayers, funeral details, and much more in high-gloss print. Yet, despite their sophistication, nothing produced today quite matches the artistry of the Victorian-era mourning card.

Next Week: Death in the Victorian Era, Part 11: Sin Eaters

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