Antependium of Altar 1939

Editor: We're looking at "Antependium of Altar," a 1939 watercolor and drawing on paper by Edward Jewett. It’s quite charming, with these alternating diamond shapes. Some are floral, others showcase bunches of grapes... what initially springs to mind for you when you look at this, in terms of meaning or context? Curator: Well, my mind skips down a whimsical path… Seeing that "Antependium of Altar" in the title throws some shade on my assumptions! What appears decorative also seeks meaning, that altar designation gives it spiritual weight. I wonder: Do the grapes allude to sacramental wine, or a Bacchic revelry? What is devotional is frequently deeply sensual too, right? Editor: I hadn’t considered the wine association, but now that you mention it, that symbolism adds depth. The colors are surprisingly muted for a church altar frontal though, wouldn't you agree? Curator: True, but this might be a sketch or study rather than the final product. Perhaps Jewett envisioned this antependium for a small chapel, something intimate. And let's note how the artist arranged those flowers in a tight vessel with all of this gorgeous abundance on a defined, gridded surface; do you not think that points toward notions of order versus a natural and plentiful garden? Editor: Definitely. And that the linear pattern provides order... Curator: Just so... This work reminds me that even preliminary ideas possess grace. Every sketch holds whispers of inspiration; we see here, beauty mingles with intention in a most sacred manner, wouldn't you say? Editor: Absolutely. Now I see layers that I didn’t catch initially. It's like a secret garden carefully arranged. Curator: Yes, exactly, thank you. And the divine whispers from within!