Design for [Gas?] Lights for a Church 1875 - 1885

This is a design for gas lights for a church by Richardson Ellson & Co., currently held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The drawing depicts an elaborate candelabra, its multiple arms reaching upwards, each terminating in a source of light. The candelabra, a familiar sight in places of worship, echoes the ancient Jewish menorah. This symbol of divine light has been reimagined through history. From the seven-branched lampstand of the Temple in Jerusalem to its appearance in Christian iconography and secular contexts, the motif’s evolution is testament to the enduring human fascination with light as a metaphor for knowledge, guidance, and the divine. Consider how the very act of illuminating sacred spaces influences perception and belief, transforming architectural forms into stages for profound spiritual experiences. The image acts as a cultural carrier, a visual conduit through which collective memory and emotion converge. It transcends mere aesthetics, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. This candelabra is not just a source of illumination; it is a beacon in the darkness, symbolizing hope, faith, and the eternal quest for understanding.