Journey of a Soul to Heaven 1760 - 1770

This porcelain sculpture titled "Journey of a Soul to Heaven", presents a figure ascending to heaven, surrounded by cherubic figures, crafted by the Frankenthal Porcelain Manufactory. The imagery of the soul’s ascent, guided by divine cherubs, is reminiscent of classical and Renaissance depictions of apotheosis, where figures like emperors or heroes were shown rising to the heavens, often carried by winged figures. The gesture of the central figure, reaching upwards, is an echo of supplication found in ancient Roman art. Consider how similar motifs appear in medieval tapestries or even Byzantine mosaics. This recurring image speaks to our collective yearning for transcendence, for escaping the earthly realm. It resurfaces across centuries, each time filtered through the cultural and artistic lens of its age, reflecting our enduring fascination with the intangible mysteries of life, death, and the beyond. The motif of cherubs represents innocence, and divine assistance, underscoring the need for outside help to guide one toward a better life.