Funerary Art

Funerary Art. . , Cedar Grove is one of Virginia's finest examples of nineteenth century funerary art. This symbolic sculpture and art not only memorializes the dead but also seeks to instruct the living in a righteous life., The cemetery is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places for its art and sculpture as well as for its history. Stonecutters and sculptors who created the work located here are considered artisans who created not only beauty but also cultural links to our past., On the grounds look for mourning figures which represent grief. Hourglasses, flowers and willow trees carved into the stones represent the brevity of life. Cannon, anchors and wings represent military service while an open book marks a minister at rest., Several varieties of crosses, including Maltese and Celtic, are located within the cemetery as are other Christian symbols. A dove in flight with its wings alight represents a soul in flight. A hand with a forefinger pointed heavenward asks the living to consider their life before death calls. A heart carved into a stone represents Christ. Angels, the heavenly guides to eternity, stand a silent vigil over several plots., Other stones show the departed's membership in fraternal organizations such as Masonic, the Odd Fellows and the Woodmen of the World. Four monuments in different locations honor Confederate soldiers and sailors. Handsome wrought iron fences, including symbolic work with religious or romantic symbolism, surround several plots., Today, the funerary art and sculpture continue to teach and to memorialize as Portsmouth's Victorians intended them. They also provide visitors with a beautiful art museum.