A silent, seated angel drips mournful bronze tears in one of Cleveland’s most photographed cemetery monuments. Commissioned in the early 1920s, this haunting sculpture holds an upside-down torch symbolizing life extinguished—and it has become an iconic stop that blends art, memorial, and folklore in one striking tableau.
Crafted by Danish-American sculptor Herman Matzen and dedicated in 1924 by industrialist Francis Henry Haserot after his wife’s death, the Angel of Death Victorious has earned its place as a must-see for both history buffs and paranormal seekers alike.
Key Highlights of the Haserot Angel
Perched on a polished marble base, the life‑size bronze angel dons outstretched wings and gazes resolutely forward. Its most unsettling detail: dark streaks beneath the eyes that resemble tears, caused by decades of oxidation and weathering. That dramatic effect has drawn visitors from around the world.
The inverted torch clutched in the angel’s hands serves as a powerful emblem of extinguished life. Unlike more hopeful cemetery sculptures, this angel seems to stare rather than comfort, emphasizing death’s permanence with muted authority.
This stunning piece was commissioned in 1923–24 by Francis Haserot in memory of his wife. Though rooted in grief, the monument transcends sentimentality—its design is both elegant and somber, yet undeniably compelling.
Atmosphere & Décor
Lake View Cemetery itself spans over 280 peaceful, treed acres and the Haserot Angel resides in a quiet, shaded section beneath tall canopy lines. Visitors often describe the setting as serene—this monumental sculpture offers a calm yet emotionally charged moment within the gentle landscape.
Up-close, the angel’s patina contrasts with the gleaming marble base, and that juxtaposition amplifies its artistry. The statue sits near the Haserot family plot, with the surname subtly carved into the stone—anchoring the art in personal history.
While rooted in memorial tradition, the angel’s aesthetic brims with visual drama. Viewed at the right angle—especially in late afternoon light—it can cast long, arresting silhouettes among the gravestones.
Other Considerations
So how’s the price?
There’s no admission fee to view the sculpture. Lake View Cemetery is open daily (summer hours until early evening, winter until late afternoon), and visiting the angel is free—just drive or walk through the grounds.
Any downsides?
Being a popular photo‑stop, the ground in front often shows wear from visitors lingering there. Also, the angel is relatively small in scale compared to grander memorials at the cemetery, so expectations of monumental size may lead to brief disappointment.
What’s the best time to go?
Visit on a weekday morning or late afternoon for gentle light and fewer visitors. The stained‑bronze “tears” appear most vivid in diffused or side‑lighting. Check cemetery hours seasonally to plan appropriately.
Is parking available?
Yes—Lake View Cemetery offers multiple lots near the main gate at Euclid Avenue. Section 9 is a short walk from the entrance. Maps are available at the office, gatehouse, and notable landmarks like the Garfield Monument.
Haserot Angel (The Angel of Death Victorious)
Lake View Cemetery, Cleveland Heights, OH – Section 9, Lot 14
Website: https://www.lakeviewcemetery.com
