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 The Memorial Doctor is at it again, to show you another sarcophagus. To refresh your recollection, a sarcophagus is a large focal point sized monument that would work well in a large grouping of plots for a family. It may also be used to serve as the main monument with small tablet markers used to mark the graves of particular family members.
I would recommend against using this monument for a small family plot, as it would overpower the plot.
Ridge Top
The Glenn Sarcophagus has a ridge top, characterized by a line running along the top of the monument. Other common tops are the flat top, serpentine top, oval, roof, apex and gothic tops.
2nd Base or Sub Base Uses A Scotia And A Check For Molding
The 2nd Base, or Sub Base sits atop the bottom base. The design includes a scotia and a check for molding. A scotia is a deep concave molding used especially on the base of tablets or columns. The scotia flows into a check that turns downward into the shallow band around the sub base. A check is a cut or recess into the stone that is frequent on the top or ends of tablets. A check is the type of cutting that would be used to create a ‘rabbet,’ a term used for cuts that allow a joining of two pieces so they fit together to form a secure joint.
Wash or Drop Wash Base
The base has a wash or drop wash base. I like this feature over the overused flat top that is used, primarily, due to a lack of training, imagination, and creativity by monument salespeople. The wash is an inexpensive upgrade that I frequently recommend to my clients.
McNeel identifies the dimensions of the Glenn design as follows:
On page 169 of McNeel’s famous treatise, “The Greatest Name In Stonecraft” is a picture of the Glenn and three suggested size options for the Glenn.
169
Glenn
Z-3279
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Length x Width x Height
A
6-5 x 1-9 x 0-8
6-0 x 1-4 x 1-4
6-8 x 2-0 x 0-8
7-10 x 3-2 x 0-10
B
7-0 x 2-0 x 0-9
6-6 x 1-6 x 1-6
7-4 x 2-4 x 0-9
8-8 x 3-8 x 1-0
C
7-8 x 2-4 x 0-10
7-0 x 1-8 x 1-8
8-0 x 2-8 x 0-10
9-6 x 4-2 x 1-2
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Cap
Tablet
2nd Base (Sub Base)
Bottom Base
Cap
Tablet
2nd Base (Sub Base)
Bottom Base
Cap
Tablet
2nd Base (Sub Base)
Bottom Base
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Monument Dimensions Explained
Option C above is the largest size, with a cap that is a full 7 feet 8 inches long, 2 feet 4 inches wide and 10 inches tall. The tablet is 7 feet long, 20 inches wide and 2 feet 6 inches tall. The 2nd Base or Sub Base is 8 feet long, 2 feet 8 inches wide and 10 inches tall. The Bottom Base is 9 feet 6 inches long, 4 feet 2 inches wide, and 1 foot 2 inches tall. This is a very impressive sarcophagus memorial that would serve as an heirloom memorial for an entire family.
Comment Regarding Dimensions
Some of my dear readers may wonder why I express measurements in terms of feet and inches instead of just inches when the dimensions are less than a yard. The simple reason is that I desire to explain how measurements are communicated within the monument industry, and also, so you can read any measurements that I do not explain, such as for Options A and B above. Please take a moment now and read those dimensions so the Memorial Doctor will know how he is doing as an educator!
Remember: Length x Width x Height.
As with all designs, you can scale the basic design for the monument larger or smaller proportionally as your needs may require.
McNeel’s Comments on Symbolism
McNeel describes the symbolism for the Clark design stating: “Gothic Architecture is admirably illustrated in the Glenn, embellished with the quatrefoil symbolic of the four Gospels and the Greek Cross with the fleur ends symbolic of the Holy Trinity.”
Epitaph
The epitaph on the Glenn Sarcophagus is “Trust In The Lord And Do Good.” This is a fine epitaph that speaks to current and future generations.
Final Comments
This large memorial is a beautiful centerpiece memorial that would honor any family. The next time you are visiting a cemetery, look for a sarcophagus, take a photograph, and e-mail a digital photograph with your comments about the cemetery and the sarcophagus of interest. I always enjoy hearing from my readers. If I use your photograph and comments in a future article, you will receive a nice gift in appreciation for your efforts.
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