- Crematory Berne, Switzerland, 17th March 1998. Welcome. My photo essay shows the use of fire as a cleansing agent as well as a solution of postindustrial society to the problem of death. I have focused my lens on the mechanics of the crematories--the men working the ovens and the equipment they use; not the personal dimension of death--no piety, grief, flowers or tears. The accompanying text is ...www.webexhibits.org/ashfactories