What are stelae in the context of tomb classification?

Stelae refer to upright slabs of stone that are often used in various cultures as markers for graves or important locations. In the context of tomb classification, stelae serve multiple purposes; they can both delineate the boundaries of a grave and serve as a monument that provides information about the deceased or the context of the burial. These stone slabs can be inscribed with text or adorned with imagery that conveys the identity, status, or achievements of the individual memorialized.

The significance of stelae lies in their historical and archaeological value, as they reveal insights into the cultural practices surrounding death, commemoration, and memorialization within different societies. The upright positioning of these stones distinguishes them from other potential grave markers or structures, highlighting their importance in funerary practices.

While grave markers and other types of tomb structures might also play roles in burial contexts, it is the specific classification and function of stelae as upright stone slabs that makes this choice the most appropriate in the context of the question regarding tomb classification.