Xenia epigram

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A xenia epigram is an epigram attached to a gift, sometimes as represented in a xenia mosaic. Originally found in Latin literature, it was revived in the nineteenth century.

An example:

[edit] With a Mosaic "Forget me not"

Accept and wear this constant flower,

Thus copied out by art.

It blooms in Nature but its hour,--

For ever in the heart.

Affections into habits grown,--

Lives fastened in one lot,--

The flower has strengthened into stone

We name "Forget me not."

[edit] References

Nathaniel Langdon Frothingham, Metrical Pieces: Translated and Original, Boston: Croby, Nichols, 1855. p. 349.