August 16, 2009

Gray and gold

Because I do not have photos of the San Agustin Church's interior yet, on this Sunday, I offer you instead a view of the Manila Cathedral's nave and sanctuary. Someone once mentioned to me that he didn't like the Manila Cathedral's ceiling because it was so simple. Yes, none of the domes have paintings but I like the sculpted details of the arches, pillars and clerestory, and how the cold grays contrast yet blend with the warm browns and golds of the pews and altar.

Manila Cathedral interior

23 comments:

  1. LowellAugust 16, 2009 at 9:06 AM

    I agree with everything you said. This is a super terrific photograph! Truly a beautiful nave and altar!

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  2. Leif HagenAugust 16, 2009 at 9:21 AM

    A heavenly snap, Hilda! It's so open and light and spacious! I wonder how old it is? How the music and worship there? Ever been to an organ concert or other concert there?

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  3. GeorgeAugust 16, 2009 at 9:53 AM

    I happen to like the simplicity of this cathedral ceiling. You're absolutely correct when you talk about how well the ceiling blends with the colors below.

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  4. AnonymousAugust 16, 2009 at 10:15 AM

    It is just right - very fitting to the catholic tradition. Orthodox churches like the Greek or Russian usually have lots of icons and paintings all over the ceiling - but this one fits the best catholic traditions!

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  5. ReenaAugust 16, 2009 at 10:46 AM

    wow!! i always just pass by this church and never go inside to pray. the interiors are really spectacular!

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  6. JamesAugust 16, 2009 at 12:05 PM

    It's beautiful!

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  7. LayrayskiAugust 16, 2009 at 1:20 PM

    I like the design of the church, what are they talking about? hehe very nice photo Hilda.

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  8. DinaAugust 16, 2009 at 2:14 PM

    Very beautiful . Sometimes less is better.
    And a shiny floor too. :)

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  9. Cezar and LéiaAugust 16, 2009 at 4:00 PM

    Oh Hilda, this altar church is magnificent!Fabulous angle as well!
    Thanks so much for sharing so beautiful picture!Perfect for our Sunday!
    Léia

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  10. pennyAugust 16, 2009 at 6:00 PM

    The beauty in life is not in the details but in its simplicities...
    This chapel is marvelous and allows the mind to meditate on the reasons for being there.
    Thanks for taking me to church this wonderful Sunday morning, Hilda. I enjoyed it very much...

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  11. GreensboroDailyPhotoAugust 16, 2009 at 7:09 PM

    Such a great peak into this cathedral. And the photo is a perfect capture.

    As for grapefruit and shrimp, I love both and just need to be brave enough to try them together!

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  12. LoisAugust 16, 2009 at 7:39 PM

    I think it's lovely! Sometimes less is more.

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  13. VPAugust 16, 2009 at 10:51 PM

    I am a bit envious of this great photo of the beautiful inside of your Cathedral. This is exactly how I would like a church (and its photo) to be.

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  14. MeriAugust 17, 2009 at 12:31 AM

    Simply beautiful. Beautifully simple.

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  15. marleyAugust 17, 2009 at 4:54 AM

    Very nice contrasts. Lovely tones. I've got a contrast photo today but I think you win hands down!

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  16. DAugust 17, 2009 at 7:53 AM

    I agree. The architecture is art enough. I love the simplicity!

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  17. JillyAugust 17, 2009 at 4:56 PM

    Magnificent, Hilda -so light and welcoming, somehow. You've photographed it beautifully.

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  18. Lisa WilsonAugust 17, 2009 at 11:49 PM

    That is truly a perfect photo!

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  19. Ming the MercilessAugust 18, 2009 at 4:26 AM

    Wow, that is an impressive looking church. The floor is so clean and polished that it looks like a mirror surface.

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  20. AnonymousAugust 18, 2009 at 4:47 AM

    Churches always have the best ceilings!!!

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  21. P.August 20, 2009 at 1:30 AM

    So beautiful.

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  22. escapeAugust 21, 2009 at 1:32 PM

    great shot! were you using a tripod when you took this shot?

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  23. FrankAugust 22, 2009 at 10:33 AM

    Gorgeous. It's a beautiful as any I've seen. Great shot capturing the light and grandness of the alter.

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