The Canadian National Vimy Memorial is a significant war memorial located in France, dedicated to the memory of Canadian soldiers who fought and died during World War I, particularly those who participated in the Battle of Vimy Ridge in April 1917. This battle is often regarded as a pivotal moment in Canadian history, symbolizing national unity and sacrifice. The monument was designed by Walter Seymour Allward and unveiled on July 26, 1936.
 
The Vimy Memorial features various symbolic elements that represent themes of sacrifice, loss, and hope. It consists of two towering pylons that symbolize Canada and France, along with numerous allegorical figures that convey deeper meanings related to the war and its impact on humanity.
 
The Lady with Head Down: Canada Bereft
At the center of the front wall of the memorial stands a prominent figure known as Canada Bereft, also referred to as Mother Canada. This figure is depicted as a cloaked young woman with her head bowed down, resting her chin on one hand while looking sorrowfully at an empty tomb below her.