Sunday, October 23, 2011

Death and Taxes

18th Century Headstone, Saint Philip's Cemetery, Charleston, SC  © Doug Hickok


Charleston is known for its beautiful 18th century funerary art. Its historic cemeteries feature ornate headstones, such as this one in the graveyard of Saint Philip's Church. The portrait of the woman encircled on this stone displays the fashion of the times. While fashions have changed dramatically over the centuries, a few things have not. Even in 18th century Charleston, 
citizens could not escape paying taxes nor avoid what we ultimately all must face.

11 comments:

  1. Fascinating post Doug. It's interesting to consider the life that was isn't it? Who was she? What's her story? It inevitably makes us wonder what questions they'll ask about us.

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  2. Cemeteries, especially the old ones, are places where a photographer may stumble upon great subjects. You demonstrated it.

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  3. Sunday...it's blowing storm force 6, it's grey, lashing rain, and Doug's writing about the grim reaper. Makes you feel good to be alive!!!!

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  4. I've never seen a portrait of the deceased (I presume that's who it is) carved on a gravestone before. Even if it's not a good likeness she'd be in no position to complain.

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  5. ***blog wonderful, congratulations***
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  6. Quite beautiful detail and there must be a lot of history behind...
    God bless you!
    Cezar

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  7. Heavy article but good.

    Greetings,
    Filip

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  8. Wonderful detail. Such perfect simplicity!

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  9. Ben Franklin said 'In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes,' you've reminded us all of that... I enjoy the art displayed in cemeteries...

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  10. everything has changed but some heavy sides of life not:(

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