The Sopranskis

[Photo: © anomalies-unlimited]

The Russian mafia does billions of dollars in business every year. It's deceased members deserve nothing but the best - in grave markers.

As a typical statistic, there were 1,145 Mafia related murders in one 10-month period. Most of the men killed are under the age of 35. It's OK though - when you die you can still be tough, cool and suave.

The cemeteries in which the gangs bury their fallen comrades are home to life-size, black marble monoliths for grave markers. The deceased is rendered in perfect photographic detail and can be featured in a variety of casual attire modeled after American "heros" such as Al Capone, Marlon Brando and James Dean. Leather jackets, Hawaiian shirts, Docker pants and Adidas sportswear, the standard garb of the Russian Mafia, are beautifully added if so desired.

Read the full story at Anomalies Unlimited.

Mobsters have always copied the movie or TV gangsters. It's easy to see that these Russian mafiosi were fans of The Sopranos from the way they're dressed and attitudes on their portraits, but these elaborate grave stones are uniquely the Russian mafia's own invention.

[Via Anomalies Unlimited]