Flower Wreaths
An arrangement of flowers and leaves usually in a circular shape, used as a decoration or as a sign of respect and remembrance for a person
The word 'wreath' is derived from an English word meaning to twist, such as in a circle. Wreaths have been used for thousands of years to represent victory, honor, and eternal life.
The evergreen wreath - its circular shape an emblem not only of perfection and unity but also of the warm, enduring sun - later became a Christian symbol for Christ's suffering and ultimate triumph over death.
Later wreaths were formed from a variety of pines and firs, with evergreens embodying eternal life.
An Anzac / Remembrance Day wreath can be shaped like a teardrop, called a 'chaplet'. This shape signifies the tears that we shed in grief.
Many also use a simpler circular shape.
Wreath-laying at war memorials became a central part of Anzac Day in the 1920s. The first official Dawn Service in 1928, at the Sydney Cenotaph, involved a wreath-laying and 2 minutes of silence. Wreaths are laid at memorials and cenotaphs as a way to pay tribute to fallen soldiers. The act of wreath-laying symbolizes respect, gratitude, and remembrance and is performed by government officials, military personnel, families of veterans, and community members.
The poppy flower, commonly associated with Remembrance Day (11 November), has become a popular addition to wreaths on Anzac Day (April 25th).
In a professionally made remembrance wreath, florists often use:
laurel - for glory and victory
rosemary - for remembrance The tradition of using rosemary for remembrance is linked to the Gallipoli peninsula in Turkey, where it grows wild. It has been a symbol of fidelity and remembrance in literature and folklore for centuries, dating back to Greek scholars and Roman funeral customs.
the colour purple - for mourning, spirituality and ceremony
red poppies - for the sacrifice of shed blood (usually one poppy for each of the armed services: navy, army, air force)
Funeral Wreaths
Ancient Greece and Rome: Wreaths were circular to represent eternity, indicating that while the body dies, the soul lives on. They were used to crown victors, and in funerals, they represented the victory of life over death.
Victorian Era: During the 19th century, funeral wreaths were often made with willow or cypress branches, which symbolized mourning and resurrection. White flowers were specifically used by young maidens to represent the purity of the deceased.
Ancient Customs: Archeological findings suggest flowers were used in burials as far back as 62,000 BC.
Symbolic Significance
Eternal Life: The circular shape (an unbroken circle) symbolises eternity, the ongoing cycle of life, and sometimes an "eternal crown of glory".
Respect and Comfort: Wreaths are sent as a show of respect, love, and support, helping the grieving family navigate their loss.
Memory of Life: The flowers chosen often carry specific meanings, intended to represent the deceased’s life and personality.
Funeral Wreath
Modern Usage
Today, funeral wreaths are typically ordered through florists and sent by friends, family, or colleagues directly to the funeral home or service.
Common Types: While traditionally circular, they can come in various forms, including standing sprays on easels or heart shapes.
Materials: Modern wreaths are generally made from flowers, foliage, and sometimes evergreens, arranged in a ring.
Placement: They are often placed at the base of a casket, near a memorial photo, or around the gravesite
Christmas wreaths originated from pre-Christian European, Celtic, and Scandinavian pagan traditions, where evergreen wreaths were used to represent the unending circle of life and to celebrate the winter solstice in anticipation of spring.Germans are widely credited with starting the tradition of hanging Christmas wreaths on front doors or placing on tables as centrepieces. Using evergreen branches, pinecones, apples, and candles, these fragrant wreaths symbolised life, rebirth, and light during the winter season.
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