The History, Meaning, and Symbolism of Fairy Urns

The History and Significance of Fairy Urns

Fairy urns, also known as pixie urns or elf urns, have a long history and hold deep meaning for many people. These charming miniature urns are modeled after classic Greek and Roman urn styles and stand anywhere from 3 to 8 inches tall. So where did these mystical little urns come from and what do they symbolize?

The Origins of Fairy Urns

Fairy urns first became popular during the Romantic era of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This was a time when fairies, elves, and other magical creatures captured the popular imagination. The Romantic movement emphasized emotion and imagination over rigid rationality, which opened the door for mainstream interest in fantasy themes.

It was during this period that fairy urns emerged as a decorative item. They were likely inspired by the ancient Roman practice of making miniaturized versions of objects for funerary purposes. The small urns evoked folkloric stories of fairies and contained an air of mystery and whimsy.

The Meaning Behind Fairy Urns

So what exactly do these petite urns represent? Fairy urns have taken on a few symbolic meanings:

• A resting place for fairies, pixies, or elves
• A marker or memorial for a deceased pet or small animal
• A repository for a loved one's ashes
• A decorative object representing fantasy and imagination

The fairy urn can essentially take on whatever meaning the owner ascribes to it. Its diminutive size and whimsical shape allow it to function as enchanting decor, a sweet memorial, or touching reminder of a departed furry friend.

Fairy Urns as Memorials

One of the most common uses of fairy urns today is as a memorial for a beloved pet. The small containers are perfectly sized to hold a portion of cremated animal remains. The urn serves as a lasting tribute to the joy, comfort, and companionship the pet brought to its owner's life.

Fairy urns are also sometimes used to hold ashes of infants or very small children. The delicate urns provide grieving parents with a fitting resting place for the precious little one they lost. The urn can be displayed in the home or yard as a focal point for paying tribute and finding solace.

Funerary Traditions Surrounding Fairy Urns

Fairy urns have inspired some unique funeral traditions and ways to memorialize lost loved ones:

• Pet funerals - It's becoming more common for pet owners to hold full funeral services when a beloved animal passes. This may involve inviting friends and family to say goodbye, delivering eulogies, and respectfully laying the pet to rest in a fairy urn.
• Memorial fairy gardens - Fairy urns are sometimes incorporated into miniature gardens made in memory of someone who died. These touching memorial gardens may include small statues, flowers, and decorations to represent the deceased's spirit.
• Keepsake jewelry - Tiny amounts of cremated remains can be encased in jewelry like lockets or beads. Pieces like these keep loved ones symbolically close.
• Scattering ashes - Families may choose to scatter the majority of the ashes in a meaningful spot, while preserving a small portion in a fairy urn to keep at home.

Where to Buy Fairy Urns

Today fairy urns are available from a variety of retailers online and in-person:

• Craft stores like Michaels
• New Age shops
• Boutique pet stores or pet cemeteries
• Funeral supply companies
• Etsy or other handmade/vintage sellers
• Amazon or large online retailers

When shopping for a fairy urn, look for quality construction and materials meant to last. Urns made of brass, marble, glass, or porcelain tend to be sturdy and elegant. Choose an urn style that fits your aesthetic preferences and intended purpose.

Caring for Your Fairy Urn

Fairy urns are relatively low maintenance, but they do require some basic care. Here are tips for keeping your urn looking its best:

• Keep indoor urns away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading
• Use a duster to keep urns free of dust
• Wipe with a soft damp cloth to clean
• Avoid harsh cleaners or chemicals
• For outdoor urns, bring indoors during extreme weather
• Check brass urns for lacquer wear and re-apply clear coat if needed
• Handle with care to avoid chips, cracks, or breaks

With proper care and handling, a fairy urn can last for decades as a cherished memorial or decorative accent.

The Enduring Popularity of Fairy Urns

For over 200 years, fairy urns have maintained a devoted following among decorators, pet lovers, and anyone with an appreciation for fantasy. Their diminutive size and romantic associations make them a unique commemorative art piece. For those wanting an unconventional or magical resting place for a beloved pet or family member's ashes, the fairy urn provides a fitting final tribute.

FAQs

What are fairy urns?

Fairy urns are miniature urns, typically ranging from 3 to 8 inches tall. They are modeled after ancient Greek and Roman urn styles and feature delicate, whimsical designs. The small urns are associated with fairies and elves in folklore.

What are fairy urns used for?

Fairy urns are most commonly used as memorials and for holding cremated remains. They can contain ashes of pets, small animals, infants, or a small portion of human ashes. They also serve as decorative fantasy-themed objects for the home.

What materials are fairy urns made of?

Fairy urns come in a variety of materials including brass, porcelain, marble, glass, silver, and pewter. Brass, porcelain, and glass tend to be among the most popular options.

Where can I buy a fairy urn?

You can find fairy urns at craft stores, New Age shops, boutique pet stores, funeral supply companies, and online retailers like Etsy and Amazon.

How do I care for a fairy urn?

Keep fairy urns out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Gently wipe with a soft damp cloth to clean, avoiding harsh chemicals. Bring outdoor fairy urns inside during extreme weather. Check brass urns for lacquer damage. Handle the petite urns with care to prevent chips or cracks.