ITEMS

Gravestones Graphic

2017

14 & 15 Gravestones.pdf

Gravestones

A headstone, tombstone, or gravestone is typically placed over the head of the deceased’s grave and inscribed with their name, birth date, and date of death. Many headstones also contain symbols or sayings that allow mourners and visitors to garner more information about the deceased. Each symbol can take on many meanings. The interpretation is in the eye of the beholder as well as in the skilled hands of the engraver.

Mormon Temple
is a fairly recent symbol to headstones. Due to the intricacy of the image it was rarely used until the 1960s when sandblasting and air-powered chisels made it easier to replicate. Today the temple symbol is common in cemeteries throughout Utah. The symbol of the LDS temple is used to mark the graves of faithful members of the church and to reinforce the idea of eternal life and eternal families.

Draped Cloth
can symbolism the veil that seperates life and death. In this case where the drapery is over a book the symbol refers to a life cut short before their book of life was completed.

Wreath of Laurel
as seen on the Weeping Woman statue. The laurel wreath is a common symbol usually associated with eternity of the human soul and life everlasting. This symbol can also mean victory of life over death, immortality, or the deceased reaching heaven.

The Squires Headstone
is an example of many symbols. Note the archway at the top of the headstone. The keystone is missing sometimes, symbolizing a life cut short or unfinished. Lilies partially surround the name. The symbol of lilies is usually associated with purity or beauty. The pathway of cobbles leads to the pearly gates which are opened for the deceased to enter.

Squires Headstone, Utah State University, Merrill-Cazier
Library, The Barre Toelken Collection Folk035aBx01-1986

Clasping Hands
can have many meanings but the most common interpretations are remembrance of the affection between two people, commonly husband and wife, or mother and child. Guidance by a deceased partner who is leading the newly dead into everlasting life may also be symbolized with clasping hands. Yet another interpretation is the hand of God welcoming the newly deceased into heaven and eternal everlasting life.

Lamb
often refers to the lamb of God, gentleness and purity. This symbol may also mean the innocence and purity of a child.

Open Book
can have many meanings. The book can be a religious tome such as the Bible, Koran, or Book of Mormon. The type of open book pictured here usually implies the deceased’s beliefs or vocation. An open book can also signify the “Book of Life” and believing that the deceased will have their name contained therein, thus ensuring them everlasting life in heaven. Another interpretation of an open book is the deceased’s eagerness to learn new or interesting things in life. The book may also signify the deceased’s pure life and be a record of accomplishment.