Name/Title
Mourning Pin Box and PinsEntry/Object ID
1987.21.1Description
Black cardboard box and black metal pins of various sizes. The adhesive label has white font. The center features a crypt-like image, surrounded by the words "Columbus Jet Black Mourning Pins" and a Greek key pattern. Smaller wording along the border notes that the contents were made in Great Britain and weigh half an ounce.Use
These black jet pins, contained in a dark box featuring a depiction of a crypt, were often used to secure women’s shawls and veils during mourning periods. Jet, a material similar to coal, was a popular choice for mourning jewelry due to its deep color and smooth texture, which could be easily shaped and polished. Although these particular pins were manufactured in Great Britain, Columbus, Ohio, was a significant hub for mourning jewelry at the time, hence the inclusion of "Columbus" on the label.Context
Historically, social etiquette dictated that individuals wear black while they were in mourning. Depending one’s relationship with the deceased, a mourner’s attire and length of public grieving varied. For example, women were expected to wear black gowns, jewelry, and veils for around two years following the death of their spouse or child, while husbands typically dressed in dark clothing for only a few months. When mourning a friend, individuals often wore symbolic accessories—such as pins, ribbons, or armbands—for a few weeks.Made/Created
Date made
circa 1800 - circa 1900Place
* Untyped Place
Great BritainContinent
EuropeNotes
Created by KB& Co. of Great BritainInscription/Signature/Marks
Type
LabelLocation
Box ExteriorTranscription
Columbus Jet Black Mourning Pins; made in Great Britain; 1/2 oz.Material/Technique
LabelDimensions
Dimension Description
Box DimensionsHeight
1/2 inWidth
2-5/8 inLength
1-3/4 in
