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 In monuments that I design, I like the use of multiple bases. This underused resource adds beauty to a memorial in a way that moves the ordinary to the extraordinary.
Looking at McNeel’s “The Greatest Name in Stonecraft” once again, the Shiflett Horizontal Monument on page 81 has a “die” or “tablet” that sits on top of the base that makes contact with the foundation.
Shiflett
Page 81
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Length x Width x Height
Option A
4-0 x 0-8 x 2-0 Die
5-0 x 1-4 x 0-8 Base
Option B
4-8 x 0-10 x 2-4 Die
5-10 x 1-6 x 0-8 Base
Option C
5-0 x 1-0 x 2-6 Die
6-4 x 1-8 x 0-8 Base
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Stylistically, the Shiflett has an oval top, straight sides, and a flat base, with balance rock pitch on the sides of the base. The name is within a panel, a bordered area on the surface of the monument, which has the effect of framing. To me, there is a beauty to the ruggedness of the Shiflett, expertly carved by a talented stonemason who recesses a polished panel.
McNeel describes the symbolism of the Shiflett as “The Maltese Cross at each end of the name panel is symbolic of the eight Beatitudes.”
McNeel states that symbols on the Cable Vertical Monument represent “The Honeysuckle furnishes an unusual decoration for the frieze stone. The pilasters on each corner of the die stone lend strength and stability to the Classic design.”
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