The Weeping Angel in the Chapman H. Hyams monument, Metairie Cemetery
The statuary in New Orleans cemeteries is, like all art, fundamentally human. Rendered in marble are visible expressions of the full spectrum of faith and hope and love. This weeping angel sculpture that adorns the mausoleum of the Hyams family is a copy of the original Angel of Grief created by William Story for his beloved wife, Emelyn, upon her death. Read more about their story here. Located in Rome, the original was the last piece created by Story, who said, "It represents the angel of Grief, in utter abandonment, throwing herself with drooping wings and hidden face over a funeral altar. It represents what I feel. It represents Prostration. Yet to do it helps me." Indeed, art is so human because it is so sacramental. You can visit the beautiful replica sculpture (sometimes called the "blue angel" because of the blue stained glass windows surrounding it) in one of New Orleans' largest cemeteries that houses countless other beautiful statues.
Have a good, true, and beautiful weekend.
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