tjbrn wrote:

I also found this in the packet of photos. Any idea what it is?

It appears to me that the woman in this metal is definitely not the Virgin Mary. I have never seen her portrayed with a skull in her hand. There is only one female Saint that is portrayed holding skulls - Mary Magdalene. There are a few male saints but she is the only female one I know of. I cannot make out what is in her other hand.
The crossed flags is a common symbol for many Italian-American societies and organizations. Among many other things, she is the Patron Saint of Casamicciola, Italy.
Not sure this will help...

OK - I remembered another female saint who is protrayed with a skull. Saint Rosalia is the Patron Saint of Sicily. Saint Rosalia is also portrayed with a garland of flowers encircling her head as you see in your image also.

Very interesting Cathy. The patron saint of Sicily certainly fits as both of my maternal grandparents were from Sicily. I also found this reference.

Quote::

Skulls are associated with such penitent saints as st francis of assisi, st jerome and st mary magdalene. when included in depictions of them the skull may have a cross placed nearby.