Tomb Of Henri Van Laun 1819 To 1896

The tomb of Henri Van Laun (1819-1896) is a Grade II funerary monument located in Brookwood Cemetery. Designed by sculptor Emmeline Halse, the monument is made of terra cotta and features an oval portrait relief of Van Laun, which is glazed white and partially draped. This relief is set against a backdrop of books and scrolls, which rest on a square plinth adorned with griffon monopeds at each corner. The books are inscribed with titles, including "Histories of English and French Literature" by Van Laun.

Each side of the plinth displays various reliefs: the front features a classical mourning figure, the sides are inscribed with the names 'Taine' and 'Labruyere', and 'Moliere' and 'Lesage', all set within garlands. The rear face bears the inscription 'Erected to the memory of my father'. This monument highlights Van Laun's literary contributions as a Belgian writer and critic. It is an unusual example of a terra cotta memorial, reminiscent of Georgian memorials made at the Coade stone factory, and may be linked to the terra cotta production center in nearby Compton.