Monstrance 1851 - 1852

Curator: This is a monstrance, designed by Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin. It's a radiant object, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Absolutely, the radiating spikes demand attention. I'm immediately curious about the silversmithing; what can you tell me about the process? Curator: Pugin was deeply invested in Gothic Revival and meticulous craftsmanship. It's all about glorifying the sacred through detailed work. Editor: Yes, and think of the labor involved in each of those radiating arms. This is a testament to material production. Curator: It speaks to a certain spiritual devotion, the kind that sees value in dedicating countless hours to a single piece. Editor: For me, it highlights the cultural systems of patronage, the relationship between commissioner, artist, and the labor required to produce the piece. Curator: Indeed. Perhaps this object invites us to meditate on value, both spiritual and material, in unexpected ways. Editor: Precisely. And how those values shape the very objects we deem worthy of display.