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,...

Show Notes

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

Victorian Cemetery Symbolism

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