death-lantern

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death-lantern. In a churchyard or cemetery, a column surmounted by a lantern (usually behind an ajouré panel) over which was a cross. Intended to deflect evil spirits, they were sometimes large enough to have a staircase within the structure, and a lectern or pulpit at the base. In certain situations they also served as beacons (e.g. Visby, Gotland). Some were incorporated within chapels (e.g. Cemetery of the Innocents, Paris).

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Mevr Petra Maclot

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