National Cathedral Flower Guild

- SECOND FLOOR OLMSTED GALLERY, POLYCHROME SCULPTURE OF THE LAST SUPPER, MADE IN SPAIN, 16TH CENTURY

Photographed by Amiee Custis Photography

Florist’s inspiration: The Last Supper is one of the few specifically Christian artworks at Anderson House, depicting the moment at which Jesus announces he will be betrayed. Shortly after this meal, he was arrested, tried, and then crucified. After he had passed, he was placed in a tomb. The time from which he began his final 40 days, was crucified to the time in which he is risen is called Lent. This year Art in Bloom DC happens to fall during this period. Traditionally during Lent the National Cathedral does not use flower-ing blossoms in sacred spaces, as a way of remembering and paying homage to this dark time. Following this tradition, only greenery, pods, mushrooms and sticks have been used in the design. A chalice like vase has been used to symbolize the cup of christ as well as a golden crown of thorns. Finally a dove flys in the middle representing the holy spirit. Aloe and Myrrh were used to anoint the body after death and both have been used in the design as well as palm leaves and barren fig twigs.

Recipe: Olive greenery, willow red dogwood, mushrooms, Spanish moss, fig branches, green bay leaves aloe, Myrrh.

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