Funeral torch c. 1720

This Baroque-era "Funeral Torch" from the early 18th century is an ornate and symbolic piece of religious art. Carved from wood and gilded, the torch features a skeletal figure adorned with wings, representing death and resurrection. The intricate, scroll-like design of the torch and its towering height (112 1/2 inches) add to its dramatic and somber presence. The metal stand further emphasizes the symbolic nature of this artwork. Today, the piece stands in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, a testament to the enduring artistry and religious devotion of its time.