St James' Cemetery » Memorials » Symbols » Classical

Classical Greek and Roman symbolism

This is common in nineteenth-century British cemeteries due to a revival of Classical art and architecture at this time.

Broken column: The broken column often signifies either a life cut short and/or the death of the head of a family.

Urn: The urn represents the classical funeral urn for cremated remains, although cremation wasn't popular in Britain at this time.
The veil or drape often depicts the veil between life and death and/or a protective covering for the soul.

Willow treeThe weeping willow tree is a symbol of mourning and grief.