Kruis en twee kandelaars in de Abdij van Maredsous, België before 1896

Joseph Casier's "Cross and Two Candlesticks in the Abbey of Maredsous, Belgium" uses monochromatic lines to capture a spiritual scene. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing height and a sense of reverence, with the cross centrally placed, flanked by candlesticks, all set against a backdrop of ornate floral patterns. The symmetry provides a structured yet ornate aesthetic experience. The formal arrangement uses signs and symbols inherent within Christian iconography. The cross, rendered with meticulous detail, serves as the focal point, demanding contemplation on the themes of sacrifice and redemption. Casier's work prompts reflection on how religious symbols utilize formal elements to convey layers of meaning and evoke emotional and spiritual responses. The detailed linework and balanced composition emphasize its cultural and philosophical resonance. By focusing on symmetry and detail, Casier invites us to consider how established meanings are reinforced through carefully constructed forms, and what this communicates about faith and artistic expression.