The Heart of the Spiritual Heaven. Revelation 7
When Mr. K. approached me with the request for this custom design binding, I was thrilled. He wanted me to create an unique, very special artwork that would illustrate chapter 7 of the Book of Revelation (the Apocalypse of John). The core for this work was inspired by the beautiful imagery in the verses 7:9-17: a vast, diverse multitude from every nation and tribe, all united in white robes, gathered with angels and elders in a moment of peaceful worship before the throne. I tried to capture that sense of radiant light and divine harmony.
Preliminary sketch
7:9 After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.
7:11 All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and worshiped God
- The Throne and the Lamb: at the absolute center (placed on the upper spine of the binding), the Lamb of God sits enthroned in a radiant, white and gold aura, flanked by the Tree of Life that contains twelve fruits (one for each month of the year).
- The Twenty-Four Elders: seated upon majestic thrones as an arch around the throne of God, the crowned elders bow in deep contemplation and reverence.
- The Great Multitude: below the heavenly court, an innumerable multitude draped in white robes stands before the throne, holding finely detailed palm branches.
- The Four Living Creatures and the Angelic Hosts: placed symmetrically in the upper corners, into the celestial sphere amidst swirling, starry blue skies, the symbolic living creatures watch over the entire scene.
- The Menorah and the Sea of Glass: a golden seven-branched menorah rests at the center upon a vibrant, rippling sea of crystalline blue and turquoise tones.
This one of a kind artistic binding is unique and was custom made following my customer's guidance. Each figure, line, and star has been painted by hand, making this not just a book cover, but a sacred, living piece of fine art. Creating this binding was for me a very peaceful and quiet, deep meditative process. I hope it makes the perfect addition to his collection of rare books, unique fine bindings and bespoke sacred art.
