Rosehill Cemetery, Chicago, Illinois

This stained-glass window from the Neo-classical Doric style Loring Family mausoleum in the Rosehill Cemetery at Chicago, Illinois, depicts an angel in contemplative prayer.

The stained-glass window is ripe with Christian symbolism. It is always difficult to look at a piece of artwork like this and know whether the sun is setting or rising. The setting sun represents death—darkness. If the sun in this scene is a rising sun it represents Christ’s resurrection.

The angel with resplendent green wings and golden robe symbolizes God’s messenger.  But angels also have the double role as the guide to Heaven. Here the angel looks to Heaven while his hands are clasped together in prayer. Praying hands represent his pious devotion.

Rosehill Cemetery, Chicago, Illinois