Victorian Cemetery Symbolism

What do you think of when you hear the word cemetery? Spooky? Do you think history and art museum? If you haven't, you should! This episode explores some common symbols found in Victorian era cemeteries in the US.   Trigger Warning: Grief, loss, child loss   Some examples of the symbolism covered:  Broken columns symbolize the end of life, usually one cut short  Snapped flowers and buds symbolize a life cut short, usually a young one  Empty shoes, beds, and chairs symbolize the absence of a loved one  Lambs symbolize innocence and youth   Doves symbolize purity, peace, and the Holy Ghost  Wheat is found on the tombstones of those who lived long lives  Clasped hands symbolize marriage. A hand pointing up shows where the person has gone (Heaven)  The virtue Hope, is shown with an anchor, a symbol of a good voyage  An inverted torch symbolizes the flame of life burning on the other side   Ivy is associated with immortality and fidelity   Drapes and veils represent the passage from Earth to Heaven   Visit the Resources section of my web site to download a PDF with my photography of these symbols.   The following artists are mentioned in this episode:  Empty chair paintings – Amy Markham  Inverted torch necklace – Arcana Obscura   Hands pointing up clay imprints – Grey Squirrel Studio