Design for a reliquary 1686 - 1724

Editor: So, this is Pieter Verbruggen the Younger’s "Design for a Reliquary," dating from 1686 to 1724. It's ink on paper and feels quite ornate and elaborate. What strikes me most are the cherubs… what do you see in this design, from a symbolic perspective? Curator: Indeed, cherubs are key, weren't they? They carry the weight of innocence and divine love. Notice how they flank the central cartouche? The cartouche, itself, acts as a symbolic shield or a blank page. Awaiting inscription. What could be held, guarded, or revealed there? It’s about protection. The paired torches, combined with the cherubs, might also signal enlightenment and sacred flame. Does this design trigger thoughts of renewal and dedication? Editor: It does, actually. The torches make me think about knowledge, being passed down, or kept safe. Why place it on such an elaborate pedestal? It looks very heavy and robust, maybe to give extra protection or is there something more? Curator: The Baroque pedestal is crucial. It anchors the design. Look at its exaggerated curves and ornamentation. It elevates the relic, announcing its importance. This reflects Baroque’s love of grandeur, theatricality. The aim is to overwhelm. What emotional response do you think that evoked in its original audience? Is that something that carries through today? Editor: I see. It makes it much grander and kind of gives me an impression of reverence and respect for the items that this reliquary might hold. Curator: Exactly! The relic becomes a focal point for communal memory. Religious beliefs aside, it serves as a symbol for human need to remember, honor and preserve history. Think of any object imbued with great meaning and symbolism today… Do these pieces trigger emotional ties over time? Editor: They do! Seeing the elements and understanding the history that goes into them. It makes you wonder, you know? Curator: Symbols remain with us across centuries…carrying weight over time, don’t they? Editor: That’s a perspective I never fully appreciated before.