5TH WHEEL FRONT LIVING ROOM

Lantern was used to name a large-diameter chandelier made of silver, copper, iron, or wood, supporting little oil pots with wicks. This frame hung at the end of one or several chains, usually three. These laterns were called wheels, or Crowns of Light when they bore a great number of oil pots or sometimes wax candles.

These were lit at all solemn celebrations. In big churches, their upkeep was possible thanks to sometimes generous fixed incomes and donations. More elabore than simple lanterns, the Crown chandeliers were made of gilded copper with additional enamles, crystal balls, metal lace, and pendants, all aimed to enhance the brightness of the lights. These chandeliers were given a dazzling character, thanks to the work of medieval goldsmiths.

Utilary aside, along with its shine, which was in consonance with the refractions of the Gothic stained glass windows, the Crown of Light was the expression of the mystic of light. During the celebration days, worshippers considered it as the picture of Celestial Jerusalem and the Christ. The orb circumscribed by the circle figured the world, lit by the crown.

The Romantic movement in favour of medieval art brought Eugene Emmanuel Viollet-Le Duc to handle the restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris, an effort undertaken from 1845 through the end of his days. His numerous plans, drawings, and sketches along with the directives he gave to Poussielgue-Rusand to manufacture the Crown of Light are a testament to his desire to resurect Gothic art. His theoretical thought on the style, which influenced numerous Art Nouveau artists including Gumard, Gaudi and Horta, maintained it was a form capable of optimizing luminosity. This same kind of symbolism inspired the "path of light" lit by the flames of devotion located in the aisles of the cathedral.

Lighting: Background lights only... 2 Photogenic 2500DR set at pwr 88 right hand side and 68 left hand side. They go up to 1500 so the were set pretty low.

Special thanks to Bob for use of Studio 20 and for being my "training wheels" during this process! Appreciate your help, always!

And to Melissa for being wonderful to work with. Let's face it, half of making a good photo is having a great model!

One of my all time favorites.