1882 photograph of the infamous French diva and actress Sarah Bernhardt, who was fascinated with skulls, bats, and death; she purchased the sumptuous Rosewood coffin which she kept it in her bedroom, and was fond of memorizing her lines whilst reclining in its satin-lined splendor.

"When Mme. Bernhardt is world-weary she gets into this coffin, covering herself with faded wreaths and flowers, folds her hands across her breast and, her eyes closed, bids a temporary farewell to life. A lighted candle on a votary table at her left and a death skull grinning on the floor add to the illusion. It is only when dinner is announced that the tragedienne opens her eyes and once more takes a languid interest in things material."