The skull and crossbone symbol is a common symbol which appears on gravestones and burial monuments. It means death and mortality.
It also reminds me of a gargoyle or a grotesque which are quite common on older buildings. These are believed to be used to symbolise and ward off the evil outside of the building and protect the beauty of the inside.
Hi Fiona,
ReplyDeleteThe Skull and Crossbones is a post-Reformation symbol called a "Momento Mori" and is a warning to sinners meaning "Remember, you too will die".
Best wishes
stephen