Living Headstone

By Crusader1307

At first glance, The Title ''Living Headstone'' (or ''Haka'') may seem odd. But these are a form of Japanese Funerary Art, akin to the Western Concept of a Tombstone (or Headstone, if you prefer). Although not as common today – these were popular for 400-odd years in Japan. In short, a traditional Headstone is very expensive. Carved from Granite or polished Marble, even the extra charge of carving in names (especially for a married couple or Family Monument) make s it even more. To solve this issue, any ''Living'' Spouses or Children will commonly have their name pre-engraved. As Japanese Headstones do not have Birth and Death Dates carved on The Stone itself – to identify someone as being ''alive'', their Name is painted in bright Red paint. ''When'' this Person dies (and their remains are added to The Plot – the paint is removed. It is allowed to place a stylized wooded board with the name of ''who erected and on what year this was done'' on the back of The ''Living Headstone''.