10. Civil War Mural
Washington National Cathedral Altar Guild
Mary Wright Baylor and Laura Scanlon
2025 installation - Key Room
The Inspiration
This allegorical mural painted by H. Siddons Mowbray depicts the American Civil War, featuring allegorical figures of the North, the South, and War.
The Flowers
Florist’s inspiration: We are inspired by the spirit of restraint depicted by the allegorical figures at the center of the mural. Holding a shield instead of a weapon, the figure at the foreground subdues his counterparts who are eager to use their weapons. Simultaneously, the artist portrays the release of an enslaved person from his bonds by an angel. The mural represents the tension between war and peace, bondage and freedom. Our color palette reflects the muted tones of their robes and a serene landscape.
Recipe: Coral bark maple and camellia branches from the garden are complemented by eucalyptus to create our line. Featured flowers include dianthus, garden roses, hellebores, ranunculus, calla lilies, and thistle in muted tones.
THE DESIGNER
Mary Wright Baylor and Laura Scanlon
Washington National Cathedral Altar Guild
Mary Wright Baylor and Laura Scanlon are volunteers with the Washington National Cathedral Altar Guild—a committed team of volunteers who play a key role in creating beauty that enriches worship and invites one to connect with the presence of God. From intimate chapels to the soaring High Altar, the flower guild prepares floral arrangements for scheduled daily, weekly, and special services, including the January 2025 state funeral for President Jimmy Carter.
In addition to floral design, Mary and Laura provide educational outreach and consultation to smaller churches along the East Coast who seek guidance on how to develop flower guilds and design sacred flowers.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY
Angelika Johns Photography
Angelika Johns is a wedding, portrait, and commercial photographer known for capturing natural and effortless photographs brimming with genuine emotion.
With an ability to sense the atmosphere and anticipate key moments, her work blends a photojournalistic approach with a refined editorial aesthetic.
