<I>Wire frame, sword & Bible</I>

ca. 1860-1940

In mourning symbolism of the nineteenth century, sword and Bible were symbolic of victory over death. The Bible was meant to call attention to religion and be a testament to the beliefs of the deceased and the addition of the sword referenced “the sword of the spirit” in Ephesians 6:13, the tool given to Christians to remain faithful and achieve victory over death. Victory over death is rooted in the tenants of the Christian faith, and in the nineteenth century this concept was magnified. Death and eternity in heaven were seen as the victory of faithfulness. Symbols of victory reminded the Christian that whatever pain and suffering one may endure, they would come out on the other side into glory and heaven. In addition to symbolic shapes, references to victory were made through the “Language of Flowers” by using palm, laurel, or nasturtium. As they alluded to the reward at life’s end, set pieces in the form of victory symbols were especially suited to funerals, but they might also be used at other religious events and occasions.