Victorian Freemason "Brother" Casket Plaque Apothecary And piercing is his dart

And piercing is his dart

the auto vase was a bud vase designed to hold a small bouquet of sweet smelling flowers to help make unsavory car journeys more pleasant

We do not see these blemishes as flaws but as a part of the history of this piece

which is not commonly seen

Back has two small shallow dents from where the piece pressed up against something most likely in the original owner's jewelry box

Victorian Freemason "Brother" Casket Plaque Apothecary And piercing is his dartA heartbreaking, yet beautiful memento of a life cut short, coffin plates of dearly departed loved ones were often kept and displayed on parlor fireplace mantles and tables during the Victorian era. The practice of using casket plaques began in the 17th century and was primarily reserved for those of extreme wealth. By the 19th century, the use of casket plaques began to gain popularity in North America. Early plates were made by hand by a blacksmith