My Alter

 Do you remember my love for religious pieces? I mentioned it back in this post. I find such beauty in statues, really all things religious from holy cards to churches themselves. I got the surprise of a lifetime from my husband. I think I'm still somewhat speechless.... and for me that rarely ever happens. 

 

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.

Comments

[LAURA DELLAPORTA]

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

[Heather ~ Pretty Petals]

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

[Tiina]

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...

[Valarie Kraft]

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

[Wendy Van Der Meersche]

Oh it is simply fabulous! Really stunning and perfect colors too. How thoughtful of your husband. xox

[Elise]

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'....

[Andrea S]

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

[Gabrielle]

Thanks Wendy, colors really can make or break a piece can't they?

[Gabrielle]

Elise, what a sweet comment. Happy September to you also!

[kelli]

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

[gabrielle messina]

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:

[Debi]

WOW! That is STUNNING! What an amazing gift.

[Tiffany ~ Shabby Scraps]

Stunning, just stunning!!
xoxo, Tiffany

[Natasha Burns]

Oh my gosh I have never ever seen anything like your amazing altar! What a wonderful hubby it sounds like you have! :)

[jennifer]

Just fabulous! I just found your blog and am looking so forward to reading (and seeing) more!!!!

[Leslie Young]

What an incredible gift. The altar is lovely. Does the tabernacle open. Perhaps you could have a key made.

Leslie

[gabrielle messina]

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!!