The Memento Mori Shadow Box

This handmade black shadow box features a sepia-toned skulls-and-ivy backdrop with a machine-sewn pentagram, blending vintage and contemporary design. An asymmetrical layout places a vintage-style dreamcatcher to the left—adorned with two skull-and-crossbones, metal feathers, authentic red lorikeet feathers, and a central black onyx-coloured stone. To the right lies a red-enamel coffin with an inset cross, while the word ‘FUCK’ painted in red rests immediately below it. Rooted in macabre symbolism, the skulls, ivy, and coffin confront mortality while channelling resilience, balanced by the protective boundary of the pentagram. The dreamcatcher filters spiritual currents, using its onyx-coloured centre for grounding and the vibrant lorikeet feathers to invoke wild nature. Finally, the painted expletive below the coffin injects an unorthodox, transgressive energy into traditional memento mori, serving as a powerful tool for banishing, breaking conventions, and claiming absolute sovereignty over your path. Measuring 18.5 cm per side and 3.8 cm deep, this piece offers a distinctive focal point for altar work or devotional practice.

Specifications
Frame: Black shadow box frame, handmade by a professional framer, repurposed
Backdrop: Sepia-toned craft paper featuring a skulls and ivy vine design
Stitching: Machine-sewn thread pentagram. All objects securely hand sewn
Left Focal Pieces: Metal dreamcatcher with a black onyx-coloured stone, two skull charms, metal feathers, and authentic red lorikeet feathers
Right Focal Piece: Red-enamel coffin charm with an inset cross
Text Motif: Painted red lettering reading ‘FUCK’ positioned below the coffin
Hardware Accents: Curated asymmetrical vintage and modern components for protective boundary work