ground and rigged with wires, set to shoot anyone who attempted to come near a fresh grave. The museum’s collection of mourning jewelry, in-
cluding some stunning and intricately made hairwork, is over 70 pieces large and is one of the most impres- sive displays. Brooches, bracelets, rings and pendants fill several glass cases and depict nature scenes and ornate floral designs – intricately “drawn” with single hair strands. Some combine sepia painting with hair- work, but most of the designs are comprised entirely of human hair. They’re breathtaking, sentimental works of art that groups like the Victorian Hairwork Society are trying to preserve for future generations. Equally amazing are the embroidered mourning tap- estries, which mesmerize with their hundreds of silk and wool strands, woven into images of grieving fig- ures and tranquil landscapes. There’s even some very famous hair in the museum
that will give George Washington groupies a thrill. The president’s 1799 death created an unprecedented wave of public mourning across the country; this is il- lustrated in dozens of artifacts, including a rare ring – one of several crafted by an order in Washington’s will – lined with seed pearls representing tears and con- taining a lock of the president’s hair. The Museum of Mourning Art at Arlington demon-
strates that sadness and beauty aren’t mutually ex- clusive. There’s a reason why people flock from all over the country to see this unique and extensive col- lection of art and ritual objects. Great works can be created in even the most sorrowful moments and the museum is filled with proof.
Tours at the Museum of Mourning Art, located at 2900
State Road in Drexel Hill, are available by appointment only – Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Admission to the museum is free, but donations are en- couraged. Please call ahead for details, and visit the website
arlingtoncemetery.us for more information.
The Art Of Death: (clockwise from top left) A mourning tapestry, a 1890 funeral carriage, a lantern clock from 1660, mourning clothes, bereavement jewellery made using George Washington’s hair, a cemetery gun from 1707, and (opposite) the exterior of the Toppitzer Funeral Home.
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