A rare antique 19th century French mourning hair art memento. Sentimental miniatures, like sentimental jewelry, reached a height of popularity in the late Georgian era / Napoleonic era. Entirely crafted from hair, the superb artistry is evident in the careful placement of the formed and finely chopped hair in shades of blonde and brunette atop a painted 'sky' background. The rendering is quite symbolic of the mourning iconography, set under trees is the tomb bearing a dedication of interlaced initials RBC, exquisitely formed from hair. Guarding the tomb is a loyal dog, a whippet or greyhound it seems, a symbol of eternal fidelity and loyalty. Rarely seen in mourning hair art is imagery of the dog, very difficult to find and highly sought after. Furthermore, the scene is dimensional with the addition of cypress trees, a serene lake and architectural remnants, perhaps a mausoleum, all set in the far distance. A lovely piece, beautifully crafted and the imagery is of superb sentimental quality devoted to a lost loved one. Prong set under glass in a gilt metal frame with an old paper board backing. In very good condition, the piece has been well kept all these years. Measures 3 1/8" diameter.