Angel of Grief

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Angel of Grief

The Angel of Grief is a sculpture created by William Wetmore Story in 1894. It is a popular funerary monument that symbolizes grief and mourning. The sculpture depicts a weeping angel draped over a tomb or gravestone, with its face buried in its arms. The Angel of Grief is often used to adorn the graves of loved ones as a representation of sorrow and loss.

History

The Angel of Grief was originally commissioned by the Story family as a memorial for their daughter, Emelyn Story, who passed away in 1894. The sculpture gained widespread popularity and has since been replicated and displayed in various cemeteries and memorial sites around the world.

Symbolism

The Angel of Grief symbolizes the deep sorrow and mourning experienced after the loss of a loved one. The angel's posture and expression convey a sense of profound sadness and grief, making it a poignant and evocative representation of loss and remembrance.

Legacy

The Angel of Grief has inspired numerous artists and sculptors, and its image has been reproduced in various forms of art and literature. The sculpture continues to be a powerful symbol of mourning and remembrance, resonating with those who have experienced loss.

In Popular Culture

The Angel of Grief has appeared in various works of fiction, poetry, and film, where it is often used to evoke themes of death, grief, and loss. Its iconic image has become synonymous with mourning and has left a lasting impact on popular culture.