March 30, 2014

Benedictine masterpiece

ceiling of the Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat "When love and skill work together, expect a masterpiece."
~John Ruskin (1819–1900), English art critic

The Abbey of Our Lady of Montserrat was built in 1925 to serve Manila's Benedictine monks. It is more popularly known as the San Beda Chapel because of the college which the monks operate on the same grounds. The Spanish monk-artist Dom Lesmes Lopez, assisted by Brother Salvador Alberich, spent eight years from 1931 to 1939 painting the chapel's vaulted ceiling and arched walls.

4 comments:

George said...

What a beautiful ceiling!

Karl said...

Wonderful indeed!

Lowell said...

Very impressive ceiling and I love that quote. You've had some really great quotes lately!

Unknown said...

Thanks, po. What an incredible post!!! This chapel had been such a huge part of my youth. I've attended or was part of so many ceremonies at this "chapel" (to those who may not know, this "chapel" is gigantic, soooo much more than a chapel, really) -- baccalaureate masses, Boy Scout investitures, etc. Your pics show a much brighter and airier space that I remember. Just amazing. You did it again, Hilda -- brightened my day immeasurably. Salamat from my side of the Pacific to yours!!!