This silk mourning cockade was worn by mourners observing the funeral rites of Gen. Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette #OnThisDay in 1834. 

Lafayette was given the nickname “The Hero of Two Worlds” because he was a key player in the American Revolutionary War, the French Revolution of 1789, and the July Revolution 1830. He died in Paris, France on May 20, 1834, but his funeral was observed in Philadelphia on July 21, 1834. 

In addition to the black, five-pointed fabric flower shown in detail, the mourning cockade features a letterpress and wood engraving of a funerary urn and weeping willow tree on a base with a portrait of Lafayette. The base is flanked by French and American flags. Atop of the tree is an eagle that holds in its beak a banner that reads, “a grateful nation’s mournful tribute.” Written at the bottom, “Gen. Gilbert Mottier Lafayette, born at Auvergne, Sept. 6th 1757. Died May 20th, 1834, aged 76 years 8 months, and 14 days, Funeral Obsequies performed to his memory, July 21, 1834, Philadelphia.” 

Ribbon for the funeral ceremonies of Lafayette. [Philadelphia?] 1834.  Commemorative ribbon.  Silk ; approx. 9 ¼ x 2 ½ inches.