While on our summer vacation in Savannah, I saw the most gorgeous, stunning, unbelievably breathtaking religious piece I've ever seen. Perfectly pastel, with soft muted tones. Just the right amount of detail not overly ornate.... a little shabby.... simply perfect. What was it you ask? An alter. Yes, I wanted an alter. Of course that sounds ridiculous. Who puts an alter in their home? Well, I would.
In fact, there it sits, in my home. How it got here is a very long story. I don't want to bore you with details. There was lots of white lies and deception on my husband's part... all for very good reason of course! He even had the neighbors in on it, checking the mail so I would not see the credit card statement!
A few detail shots, I think the beauty can speak for itself.
Love this flower detail, the most perfect shade of periwinkle.
The tabernacle... all carved. Complete with Holy Spirit and Lamb. Missing it's key, though.
I think this is the only red I have in my home..... the red velvet here, worn very, very well. But, I honestly can say that it does not really bother me.
Illuminated.
Columns, with a warm glow.
When buying a piece, especially one that's this substantial, I ask the person who I bought it from if they know anything about it. Unfortunately, this time, they knew nothing about it. I don't know why, but I can picture this alter in a small church in Mexico, long ago. I picture the parishioners coming together, using their talents to build, to craft this piece to be used in their church. Or, perhaps it was an alter used in a small church in a coal mining town of Pennsylvania or Ohio. Those are the images that keep coming to me. Either way, the alter was built by hand with love and dedication.
OH MY LORD!!!! IN ALL MY YEARS MY EYES HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING SOOOO INCREDIBLE!!!! HOW BLESSED ARE YOU TO HAVE THIS SACRED PIECE IN YOUR HOME... OH WHAT I WOULD DO FOR THAT ONE....CHERISH IT FOREVER AND YOU DAUGHTERS WILL TOO!!!! GOD BLESS XOOXXOLAURA
Posted by: LAURA DELLAPORTA | September 01, 2009 at 06:12 PM
OHHHHHHH my GOodness gracious!!!! That is one beautiful piece Gabrielle and how special that you have repurposed it in your own home. It is breathtakingly beautiful.
xo Heather
Posted by: Heather ~ Pretty Petals | September 01, 2009 at 07:24 PM
Stunning!!! I am dreaming of doing some type of alter area in my home as well...Religious items are so expensive for the fabulous kinds, but it is so worth it...Lucky you!!! Enjoy your beautiful piece...Love Tiina...
Posted by: Tiina | September 01, 2009 at 08:50 PM
This is truly one of the most beautiful pieces I have ever seen. I cannot believe what an incredible husband you have. You are a lucky woman. Have a lovely day.
Valarie
Posted by: Valarie Kraft | September 01, 2009 at 09:53 PM
Oh it is simply fabulous! Really stunning and perfect colors too. How thoughtful of your husband. xox
Posted by: Wendy Van Der Meersche | September 03, 2009 at 11:27 PM
Hello, you have the most fabulously wonderful site here and I had to leave this comment for you ! Your posts are beautifully written, creative and original too, and you have interesting pictures.
It's all perfect !
Thank you for sharing your site and best wishes.... 'Happy September'....
Posted by: Elise | September 04, 2009 at 02:57 PM
Oh my chickens and stars! It's stunning, Gabrielle! Absolutely gorgeous and heavenly...no pun intended. I'm so happy that you found such a special piece to keep and preserve and love. And that Frank....he's a keeper {but of course you already know that!}
xo
Posted by: Andrea S | September 04, 2009 at 04:46 PM
Thanks Wendy, colors really can make or break a piece can't they?
Posted by: Gabrielle | September 04, 2009 at 10:06 PM
Elise, what a sweet comment. Happy September to you also!
Posted by: Gabrielle | September 04, 2009 at 10:07 PM
Oh Gabrielle---I'm speechless---absolutely stunning. It seems to be a perfect fit for you and your home. And don't you love it when our husbands surprise us like that?
xo
Posted by: kelli | September 06, 2009 at 11:28 AM
Hello Sweet Kelli, I hope your Labor Day is off to a wonderful start! Thanks for the alter love. Surprises are wonderful!! LOL How was your crafting day last week? Good? I hope so!!
Have a wonderful day with your beautiful family!
xoxo
On Sep 6, 2009, at 11:28 AM, typepad@sixapart.com wrote:
Posted by: gabrielle messina | September 07, 2009 at 10:06 AM
WOW! That is STUNNING! What an amazing gift.
Posted by: Debi | September 10, 2009 at 12:05 AM
Stunning, just stunning!!
xoxo, Tiffany
Posted by: Tiffany ~ Shabby Scraps | September 15, 2009 at 01:40 PM
Oh my gosh I have never ever seen anything like your amazing altar! What a wonderful hubby it sounds like you have! :)
Posted by: Natasha Burns | September 24, 2009 at 06:20 AM
Just fabulous! I just found your blog and am looking so forward to reading (and seeing) more!!!!
Posted by: jennifer | October 05, 2009 at 09:58 AM
What an incredible gift. The altar is lovely. Does the tabernacle open. Perhaps you could have a key made.
Leslie
Posted by: Leslie Young | November 08, 2009 at 10:13 PM
Hi there, Yes, it does open... I was thinking the same when I got it... But, have yet to have one made or even search for one!
have a great day!!
Posted by: gabrielle messina | November 10, 2009 at 10:05 AM