A burial from 1758 and this year is 2011 — that is 253 years. This aged stone has been braving the elements, mosses and lichen in Dunning, Perthshire, Scotland. (Although this photograph was taken a few years ago, I am told)
The crumbling amassed at this stone’s base is minimal. The recessed triangular pocket in the lower right quadrant is a result of spalling; it points to a hairline crack that journeys slowly across the stone face to the left. I am not certain, but does it appear that someone tried to paint over these imperfections? The chemicals in the paint will do supreme damage later on if not removed by a restoration professional.
Major chipping is also evident along the length of the lunette of the cherub. Deep cracking is also easily found beneath it where it meets the inscription block, as well as at the upper left segment of the inscription block.
But, the greatest thing about this beautiful sandstone piece is all the data is still intact. The stonemason’s chisel marks are still clear, although his panache for word wrapping and spelling might be a major issue to any Grammar-teaching rabbits out there.
I have seen younger stones not fair so handsomely as this 250plus sandstone has done. This grave is a gold mine and this photograph is priceless.
Clara, you are so lucky!