The Logistics of Farewell

by Carlotta Schneller:

Few questions trouble us humans as much as ‘Where do we come from?’ and ‘Where are we going?’ While we keep answering questions of belonging and identity throughout our lifetime, the place where a human being is ultimately buried is fixed geographical spot. Islam says: Get buried where you died. However, Muslim morticians in Germany organize transfers to a deceased person’s country of birth more often than staging a funeral here. In case of death, there is no time to lose, since a Muslim’s funeral should preferably take place the same day or the day after death. This is not possible in Germany, since legal provisions prescribe a delay of 48 hours until burial. I was curious to find out more about those engaged in the logistics in the background, who counsel the relatives in this situation and allow them to mourn and find closure.

A washerwoman prepares the shroud. Berlin, 2012By Carlotta Schneller:
Mr G., a mortician at the Muslim funeral institute Markaz, bolts the coffin’s pieces together. Berlin, 2012By Carlotta Schneller:
Washerwomen prepare the coffin for a woman’s funeral. Berlin, 2012By Carlotta Schneller:
Washerwomen cut the large shroud into the five pieces needed afterwards. Berlin, 2012By Carlotta Schneller:
Preparation for transport to the funeral institute. The packing material is necessary for transfers at the airport. Berlin 2012By Carlotta Schneller:
Mr G., mortician at the Muslim funeral institute Markaz, is on his way to the pathology. Berlin, 2012.By Carlotta Schneller:
Washerwomen prepare for the ceremonial washing of the deceased (1), Berlin 2012By Carlotta Schneller:
Washerwomen prepare for the ceremonial washing of the deceased (2), Berlin 2012By Carlotta Schneller:
The Muslim funeral institute’s rooms contain administrative and working areas, as well as gathering hall for the deceased’s relatives. Berlin, 2012By Carlotta Schneller: