Located within Cleveland’s historic Lake View Cemetery lays claim to the most hauntingly beautiful statue – The Angel of Death Victorious. More commonly known as the Haserot Angel, this bronze figure was created by acclaimed sculptor, Herman Matzen, in 1923.
It was commissioned by and influential Cleveland businessman, Francis Haserot, to honor the death of his wife, Sarah Henrietta McKinney, after her death in 1919.
Sitting on a chair with her wings spread open, the Haserot Angel holds an upside down torch meant to symbolize an extinguished life, while black streaks stream down her face giving the appearance of tears.
In realty though, the tears were actually unplanned, caused by a century of oxidation on aging bronze exposed to the elements of northeast Ohio weather.
If you decide to visit this stunning 285 acre cemetery that is the final resting place for some of Cleveland’s most prominent residents of its past, be sure to keep your head up.
The Angel of Death Victorious sits on the edge of a ravine far back from the winding roadways, which can make her easily missed. Once you catch a glimpse there is no turning back, because she pulls you into her mysteriousness and beauty.
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