The Society Domus Pius IX inaugurated its annual dramatic and splendid ‘spectacular’ event on Thursday April 10, a display that runs until April 20. This is a table decorated for with salt and rice plates each of which is a reproduction of interpreted famous masterpieces by great masters related to Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. The work is ephemeral art made from natural materials that do not harm the environment.
The theme or subject tackled this time round is the ‘Redemption of Man’ through the intercession of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
The main reason behind the choice of theme is this particular seasonal feast that changes date according to the calendar at the time of Lent. As Christians we especially commemorate the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday, the Crucifixion on Good Friday and the Resurrection on Easter Sunday. This year these feasts are celebrated in the month of April between the 17 and 20.
The choice of images is divided between sacred, secular and profane art. Some images are directly related to the subject, or artists related as a family or accademia or to related styles. The styles chosen are: late Gothic, Renaissance Early and High, Mannerism and Baroque. The organizers chose only four secular subjects from a substantial number of sacred ones chosen from famous though popular masterpieces.
The secular subjects chosen are quite related to the word ‘Redemption’ as Christ’s sacrifice was a universal saving act to save humanithy without discrimination or distinction. The protagonists are common people but imbued with dignity that transform them into spiritual individuals full of mystery and magic. Through Vermeer’s great artistic talent, that of a genius, this master of light transforms these women from common and humble individuals to super heroines imbued with dignity, gentle elegance and delicacy as we find in Chardin and Renoir.
The light that Vermeer creates although tangible or physical is enigmatic, almost immaterial, magical and mythical; incredibly beautiful and transcendental.
This year 15 members of Domus Pius IX took part in decorating plates with salt, rice and pasta while the whole project involves about 20 persons: craftsmen, decorators, artists, electricians and labourers. The ‘Last Supper Table’ is a whole elaborate project that has developed with time since its foundation in 1954. It is done with great love, enthusiasm and persistence. The craftsmen and artists cooperate with great ability, meticulous precision and patience. The whole process takes several months of preparation and work and needs a lot of cooperation and coordination.
The event that is regarded as a marvellous spectacle of great dramatic effect that stimulates the senses, the emotions and sentiments has attracted more than 3,000 visitors annually that includes both locals and tourists.
Domus Pius IX is well known for this spectacle of the Last Supper that in the form of a re-enactment reminds Christians of the last few days of Christ’s life on earth seated at a dinner table surrounded by his twelve disciples ( a traditional Roman custom of celebration as a family or group) and Gudas’ cruel deceit, a day before the Crucifixion. The main scope is that of Christians reflecting on the suffering of Christ, seeking empathy with Him and in their compassion repenting and asking His forgiveness.
E.V. Borg
You can visit the Last Supper Table in Cospicua until April 20. Further information.
