Early 20th Century French Glass Floral Beadwork Immortelles Couronne de Mortuaire

Early 20th Century French Glass Floral Beadwork Immortelles Couronne de Mortuaire France early 20th Century early 1900s Exquisite antique French Immortelles Rare find Meticulously handcrafted with tiny glass beads Threaded onto cotton-covered flexible wire To create delicate flowers and leaves Glass Beads threaded onto  Cotton Covered Metal Wire Stunning example of late 19th or early 20th-century craftsmanship Traditional everlasting floral tributes In church decorations or memorial tributes on graves etc Now used as a wall hanging In fair vintage condition H: 118cm (46.5")  W: 70cm (27.6")  D: 25cm (9.8") UK Mainland delivery is included in our price (excluding Trade Purchases) This exquisite Antique Early 20th Century (circa 1900) French beaded Couronne de Mortuaire, also known as an Immortelle, embodies the essence of the emerging Art Deco movement. Handmade and adorned with lilies, leaves, and a geometric border, this piece showcases a stunning blend of white and grey tones, with beads in delicate shades of pale blue, white, silver, grey, and green. The flowers stand proudly in a three-dimensional display.  At the lower part of the information supplied there is a detailed description of how these beautiful works of art were created. Originally a mourning wreath, this Couronne de Mortuaire now serves as a magnificent wall hanging, perfect for placing above a bed, fireplace, or sofa. Its flexible wire frame, while fragile due to age, adds to its charm and authenticity. While some small losses and minor faults are expected due to its vintage condition, the overall beauty and craftsmanship of this piece remain captivating. Ideal for discerning collectors of French Ecclesiastical Art, Memorial Artifacts, or Antique Glasswork, this Couronne de Mortuaire is a true treasure. Please note that photos cannot fully capture the magnificence of this piece. Key Features: ✔ Authentic French antique - Early 20th century, circa 1900 ✔ Intricate craftsmanship - Entirely handmade from fine glass beads ✔ Large & striking - H: 118cm (46.5")  W: 70cm (27.6")  D: 25cm (9.8") Immortelles: Timeless Symbols of Remembrance Deeply rooted in French funerary traditions, Couronne de Mortuaire, or Immortelles, stand out as unique pieces of funerary art. Unlike other decorative wreaths, Immortelles are specifically tied to mourning, reflecting the everlasting nature of the soul through their materials and designs. This art form underscores the broader cultural emphasis on memory and commemoration in French funerary practices. Derived from the French word for "everlasting," Immortelles are permanent floral arrangements placed on graves, headstones, tombs, or within churches to keep the memory of a loved one alive. More enduring than fresh flowers, these wreaths are crafted from various materials and symbolize eternal remembrance. They act as a tangible connection between the living and the deceased, allowing families to express their enduring love and respect. History and Significance Dating back to ancient times, the use of wreaths in funerary practices has been documented since the era of the ancient Greeks. In early Christian traditions, wreaths made from evergreen leaves were placed on martyrs' graves to symbolize the victory of eternal life over death. This tradition continued into modern times, with Immortelles becoming particularly popular in France from the 1830s to the early 20th century. The Helichrysum Orientale (Strawflower) Known for its longevity and ability to retain colour, the Helichrysum Orientale, or Strawflower, played a significant role in the development of Immortelles. When Barthelemy Dagnan bought three plants of Helichrysum Orientale in 1815 at the market in Marseille and planted them in his garden, he inadvertently gave a new twist to the funeral and commemorative culture of the 19th century. This flower became a popular choice for memorials and was widely used in funerary practices across Europe. Its enduring qualities symbolize everlasting life and remembrance. Design and Craftsmanship The intricate designs of Immortelles often feature three-dimensional floral patterns made from materials like glass beads, painted plaster of Paris, or china. These materials were chosen for their durability, ensuring the wreaths remain vibrant and beautiful over time. The use of glass beads, in particular, adds a layer of permanence and shimmer, enhancing their delicate appearance. Commonly used flowers in Immortelles include: Lilies: Symbolizing purity and the restored innocence of the deceased's soul. Roses: Representing eternal love and remembrance, with different colours conveying specific sentiments. Chrysanthemums: Signifying eternal rest. Forget-Me-Nots: Emblematic of enduring memory. Daisies: Reflecting innocence and new beginnings. Pansies: Symbolizing thoughts and memories. Symbolism and Variations Immortelles often incorporate religious symbols such as crosses or wreaths, highlighting the spiritual aspect of remembrance. The circular shape of a wreath represents eternity, with no beginning or end, and signifies the everlasting nature of the soul and the continuity of love and memory. In Christian symbolism, it also relates to the crown of thorns worn by Christ, signifying suffering and redemption. Modern Relevance While plastic flowers have largely replaced traditional Immortelles as long-lasting grave decorations, the historical significance of these beaded wreaths remains an essential part of French funerary culture. They continue to symbolize the enduring memory of the deceased, serving as unique and lasting tributes that reflect the individuality of the departed and the sentiments of those who remember them. The creation of an Immortelles Couronne de Mortuaire are a testament to the skill and artistry of their makers combining traditional craftsmanship and meticulous techniques with the delicate beauty of glass beads to produce these intricate designs. Here is an overview of the main materials and techniques used: Materials Glass Beads: The primary material used in these wreaths. The beads come in various colours and sizes, often in shades of white, lilac, purple, and green. Wire: This forms the frame of the wreath and is used to string and shape the beads into flowers and leaves. Cotton Thread: The wire frame is often wrapped in cotton thread to give it a finished look and to help hold the beads in place. Floral Tape: Sometimes used to wrap around the wire stems to give them a more natural appearance. Metal or Wooden Frames: The base structure to which the beaded elements are attached. Techniques: Wire Wrapping: Each bead is individually threaded onto a wire, and the wires are twisted to form stems and petals of flowers. The technique requires precision to ensure the beads are evenly spaced and securely fastened. Bead Weaving: In some designs, beads are woven together to create more complex patterns and textures. This involves a series of interlocking beads held together by multiple passes of wire. Floral Assembly: Once individual flowers and leaves are made, they are assembled into a wreath. This involves attaching each element to the main frame, arranging them to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing design. Final Touches: The wreath might be finished with additional decorations, such as ribbons or more beads, to enhance its appearance. Purchase with Confidence Mainland UK Delivery Included: Enjoy the convenience of complimentary Mainland UK delivery (excluding Trade Purchases), ensuring your cherished pieces arrive safely at your door. Delivery is usually 2-5 working days from receipt of cleared funds in our bank account.  Transparent Condition Details: For a complete understanding of each item's condition, please examine all provided photographs. These images form a crucial part of our detailed condition report, offering clear insights into the meticulous craftsmanship and quality of this exquisite item. Trusted Heritage: We are an established and successful business with many happy clients from both trade and private sectors. You are welcome to visit our beautiful showroom in West Sussex to experience our exquisite collection firsthand. Please request a quotation for EXPORT/WORLDWIDE SHIPPING QUOTATIONS from any/all of the following including a link relating to the item in question: Alan Smith Europe:    info@alansmitheurope.com Charlie Godwin:          guildford@packsend.co.uk Neil Curl Transport:   neil@neilcurltransport.co.uk Simon Hall Limited:    exportdesk@simonhalllimited.com