The 19th century industry of lacquered locks of hair in frames like this served several memento functions. Yes, they were mourning tributes, probably more often than any type, but they were also to blend hair of loved ones, or a lock of hair for a bride to give to her groom, or vice-versa. I have had some marking the point in childhood when a baby boy becomes a boy - from his mama's baby to his father's son (usually around 4, when fully potty trained and out of long gowns, in his big boy pants at which time his long hair is also shorn to a shorter male style. One more event memorialized by these is the time when a young woman becomes a nun - or enters a convent as a novitiate. I feel quite certain this is what this one is owing to the notation "Reborn to God". A nun leaves her life behind at the stage when her hair is also shorn. Keepsakes of that transition look like this one - thick lock. This one was likely for the mother of Germaine Fevier, and was taken the 1st of July, '99 (1899). Full measurements noted on the photos.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, no loose locks, no damage to the deep bombe cover glass, and the frame also remains just beautiful. Someone's treasure, well kept. One might be able to do a bit of research to find this family or this young woman who became a nun. Found in France, of course.
