Etiquette at French Funerals, 1892

1890’s expected mourning attire for women. – For men, “It is not etiquette for the gentleman to speak to anybody, but if he is moved to tears his weeping is considered a most appropriate action.”

 

A most painful custom at French funerals is the posting at the exit door of the church wherein the ceremonies take place of the male head of the deceased person’s family, the widower or the eldest son or brother, whose duty it is to shake hands with every person who has been present at the obsequies, when once they are over and people are going away. It is not etiquette for the gentleman to speak to anybody, but if he is moved to tears his weeping is considered a most appropriate action.– Paris Letter, 1892

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