Setting the features is a mortuary term for the closing of the eyes and the mouth of a deceased person (and in the case of males, the shaving of any stubble) such that the cadaver is presentable as being in a state of rest and repose, and thus more suitable for viewing. While it is one of the first stages of embalming, it is also commonly done as a token of respect even when the deceased is not viewed or is directly cremated. Generally only when the deceased (or their family) have specifically requested the body be untouched are the features left unset. Some embalmers, particularly older practitioners and those trained in the United Kingdom, will set features after the arterial injection phase of embalming is complete, but is known to be done elsewhere.
References
- Abrams, J.L. Embalming. 2008.
- Frederick, L.G. & Strub, Clarence. The Principles and Practice of Embalming (Fifth Edition) Professional Training Schools Inc & Robertine Frederick. 1989
- Mayer, Robert G. Embalming: History, Theory and Practice. Appleton & Lange. 1990