Karchaghbyur 04

Front side. A remarkable example of 20th-century tombstone art, this large monument, seemingly composed of two parts, is set on a two-step pedestal. On the carved front surface are depicted two crosses with trefoil lobes. From the floral protrusions extending below each cross perch two facing birds (likely partridges), shown pecking with their beaks at the floral “garden.” Below follows a seven-line inscription, whose upper and lower corners end in fan-shaped ornamental carvings. The continuation of the tombstone forms a lower yet elongated slab. On each of its sides are six-petaled rosettes enclosed in circles, and in their central sections, within four niches, are depicted simple church structures.

Back side. A triple-niche composition with spiral columns, beneath which are carved three domed churches. Birds are again depicted on the domes. If the birds are shown perched upon the domed structures, this most likely symbolizes that the liturgy, prayer, or intercession offered for the soul of the deceased has been fulfilled. In this case, the birds represent the heavenly realm and proclaim that, through the rite, the gates of the heavenly kingdom have been opened before the deceased.

Lateral sides. On one side only is a “flowering” cross.

Upper side. On the lower slab is a cross motif, with birds carved beneath it, and in the corners fan-shaped ornamental openings.