I'm looking for references regarding the decoration of coffin lids in the
late 18th and early 19th century.  I know that brass tacks were used to
form a panel (oval, circular, shield, etc.) within which initials and
usually the age or date were tacked out.  When and where were they popular?
 Are there archaeological or museum examples?  (some interpreted as
"sankofa" symbols).  What other decorations served the purpose
(lead/brass/silver plates)?  &c.
        Dan W.