Sarcophagus Monument at Reading Cemetery

The sarcophagus monument at Reading Cemetery is a tomb dedicated to Mary Wienholt, who died in 1859. It features a tall plinth supporting a Carrara marble sarcophagus designed in an Italianate style reminiscent of the 15th century, resting on lion's paw feet. The lower part of the sarcophagus is adorned with a symmetrical, wild garland of grapes and leaves, while the upper side is plain with floral wreaths on the sides and ends. On the east side, a wreath encircles the name 'MARY'; the ends display a wreath around a family crest depicting a male figure holding a bunch of grapes. The plinth stands on a two-stage base with inscribed panels. The inscription on the east panel reads: "Sacred to the memory of MARY WIENHOLT daughter of John Wienholt Esquire of London and Higham Hill Essex Born 30th October 1778 Died 9th December 1859 This monument has been erected by her nephews and nieces As a tribute of gratitude and affection Here rests also Magdalena Susanna Wienholt, daughter of Frederick W. Wienholt esquire of Leighton Removed from vault in St. Giles Church Reading She died 7 July 1889 aged 55 years." The tomb is located within the Grade II Registered Reading Cemetery.