Like most people, proximity to death frightens me.

Somehow the beauty of the headstones and obelisks overshadows my fear. To me, cemetaries are like museums. The mediums themselves - cool white marble, wrought iron fences, cracked bricks and mortar speak to me. But what really entrances me is the statuary, especially the angels. Their serene countenance and peacefulness somehow embraces penultimate sorrow. They have the ability to show respect for loss while still offering hope.

These photos were taken in the Brompton cemetary in London.

(Photos by Elise Thompson)