Record number: CHEGM: 1999 6 108

Object name: inscribed tombstone

Description: Tombstone. A flat-topped architectural frame, with fluted pilasters and foliate caps, encloses an inscribed panel and a round-headed niche, also framed architecturally. On the spandrels of the niche two opposed Tritons blow their shell-trumpets, in allusion to the voyage to the Isles of the Blessed. The arch is hung with a pair of swags upon which perch a pair of opposed pecking doves. Below them, on a high-backed couch with mattress, cushion and baluster legs, reclines the deceased lady, with a cup raised in her right hand. Her left-forearm, right arm, thighs and legs are draped. The head is defaced. In front of the couch stands a three-legged dining-table, with food upon it.

This is one of several tombstones found in Chester which show the dead person enjoying a banquet in the after-life.

Period: Roman

Place found: North Wall (West), Chester

Date: 9.1891

Material: stone

Dimensions: height 47 inches; width 24 inches; width 15 inches

Inscription: D M / CURATIA DINY / SIA VIX AN XXXX / H F C
D(is) M(anibus) Curatia Dinysia, vix(it) an(nos) xxxx H(eres) f(aciendum) c(uravit)
To the spirits of the departed, Curatia Dinysia lived 40 years; her heir had this set up.
Dinysia may be a slip for Dionysia Latin