LMNOP.art

Sketches from Sun. 9/8/19

<p>Gratitude for having such a diverse collection to browse. ❤</p>


Catafalque Flambeau, wrought iron bobèche tray (6-3/8 in.), wooden bobèche with pomegranate seed and leaf carvings (6-½ in.), baroque carved structure skeleton(49-½ in.), iron pole shaft (40-½ in.), wrought iron tripod base (14 in.), triangular marble plinth, overall H.112 in., gessoed polychrome and gilded wood and wrought iron

A funerary torch is a symbol of life in a  ritual commemorating death. This torch would have accompanied a catafalque: a large, architectural structure that displays the coffin of an important person in catholic funeral rites. Catafalques were used primarily in catholic European cities from the 16th to 19th centuries, though they are still used on occasion for large, public funeral rituals, such as those for the pope. 
 
The presence of a torch as a symbol of life, though seemingly contradictory to a funerary setting, visually reinforces the idea of resurrection held sacred in Catholic beliefs about death. The complex relationship between life and death is repeated consistently throughout the decoration of this torch. The pomegranate motif on the top tier of the torch is a symbol for Christ’s resurrection. On the shaft of the torch, a gilded skeleton with ornate, feathered wings - an angel of death-  entwines around arabesque curves; a dance in which life and death exist harmoniously together.

LMNOP.art
Sketches from Sun. 9/8/19, Pencil, marker, pen on handmade concertina book

Inspired by:

Funeral torch, 18th century — — Gilded and painted wood and wrought iron

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LMNOP.art Sketches from Sun. 9/8/19, Pencil, marker, pen on handmade concertina book

Inspired by:

Funeral torch, 18th century — — Gilded and painted wood and wrought iron

What does inspiration mean to you?

Connect with the artist

LMNOP.art
Sketches from Sun. 9/8/19, Pencil, marker, pen on handmade concertina book