We are often asked about the various symbols on headstones. Committee member, Sue Guest, has collated the following information and photos using examples from Karori Cemetery. We will continue to add to this as we undertake more research.
Clasped Hands
A common symbol on headstones in Karori cemetery is that of clasped hands. These represent the hands of the living and the deceased clasped in farewell. In Karori they often appear on headstones for married couples.
By convention the hand of the woman is on the left and the man on the right. The woman usually has a lace cuff and the man a shirt sleeve. The man’s index figure often points downwards.
Draped Urns
Draped Urns are quite a visible symbol in Karori Cemetery. The urn is taken from the classical Greek imaginary. They are a symbol of fate or the lottery of life.
Headstones in Karori vary. They may include a garland of flowers. Often, they are draped with a veil which symbolises the journey from life to death.
Some urns have flames coming out of top showing new life associated with death.
The Dove of Peace and the Gates of Heaven
Some headstones have strong Christian symbolism. This one concerns the promise of life after death. This headstone has an arch and an open gate representing the Gates of Heaven. It depicts the soul of the deceased passing through the gates to eternal life. The dove of peace also represents the soul leaving for heaven.
