Seed Wreath
Object NameSeed Wreath
Date1900-1909
OriginUSA
MediumSeeds
Dimensions24 × 18 in. (61 × 45.7 cm)
ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Natural Substances
Credit LineGift of Byrl Houck. In the Farm House Museum Collection, Farm House Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Object number94.1.1
Status
On viewCultureAmerican
Label TextFrom the University Museums Collections Handbook, vol. 2, 2025:
The Victorians love of nature encouraged women to include local flora and fauna in their domestic artistries. This seed wreath is a wonderful display of the Victorian ability to take discarded or found material and turn it into a decorative work of art. The wreath features various seeds and pods sewn together into floral shapes, with acorns, pine cones, and large nuts. These were likely found items sourced from the surrounding area, then cleaned and dried. The maker used wire to keep the individual elements together and sealed the final creation with a coat of varnish to protect and keep it pristine. Seed art was commonly used to decorate wreaths, baskets, frames, boxes, and more.
Each wreath is a unique work of art, reflecting the Victorian Era’s passion for detailed craftsmanship and its appreciation for the delicate cycles of nature. Often imbued with symbolism and personal meaning, these seed wreaths served as tangible mementos, linking the past to the present through the enduring beauty of nature’s bounty.
Locations
- (not entered) Iowa State University, Farm House Museum
