Have a Little Faith
Religion, apart from offering meaning to human existence, is arguably one of the biggest motivators for the creation of art. The world would probably be considerably uglier if it wasn’t for the abundance and diversity of grand visual gestures honouring God. No one would’ve bothered to build the Vatican City’s St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome’s Sistine Chapel, Rio’s Christ the Redeemer, India’s Golden Temple or countless other cathedrals, temples, statues, paintings and artifacts.
Throughout history various religious cultures have been representing themselves through imagery. These images can be used for instruction or inspiration, treated as sacred objects of worship, or simply applied as ornament. Is it possible to appreciate religious icons as beautiful works of art outside their spiritual context? Or is being born from inspiration, devotion and an expression of faith why there’s something so appealing about them? Whatever the reasons, religious iconography is becoming more sought after for its decorative quality.
Among some of the more popular items to collect are Catholic mid century paintings and statues. With soft pastel colours, halos and flowing robes these icons appeal both to those who’ve grown up seeing their images on Church pedestals as well as the less spiritually inclined.
The Mattei Bros are perhaps most famous for the beautiful statues that typically filled the Catholic church, and after the Second Vatican Council declared the use of statuary be kept to a minimum, many have found their way out into the world. Arriving in Australia from Lucca, Italy in the 1920′s, they were in business in Melbourne until the 1950′s producing statues of Jesus, Mary Immaculate, Saint Teresa Little Flower and other religous figures. Made from plaster in various sizes and handpainted with upmost detail, these icons can now be enjoyed in any context be it on the bedside table or standing arms outstretched near the front door.
