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COFFIN PLATE
COFFIN PLATE

COFFIN PLATE

Date1900
Geography Brooklyn, New York, United States
Dimensions7.4 x 28.9 x 34.3 cm
Object numberHF.00.9.2
DescriptionOval silver coloured metal coffin plate framed within a shadow box style frame. The coffin plate is surrounded by green leaves and berries with a silver coloured bird perched at the top of the plate. On the frame front is four incised rectangles with small balls at the pointed ends and parallel lines cut throughout. The frame has mitered corners and canted edges around the glass.
Narrative
Coffin plates gained popularity in North America during the 19th century. It was common for the plate to be attached to the lid of the coffin and displayed during the wake. Prior to burial, the plates were often removed and given to the family of the deceased as a memento.?

In the case of this coffin plate, special attention has been given as it was framed and decorated which could be a result of Laura Bears, the deceased, being only 13 years of age when she died. The frame was in the family home in Brooklyn, PEI.?
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