Dual Flames Matrimony Box

The two dancing flames represent two lovers joining in matrimony. The flame form visually represents life, rebirth and energy. In Southeast Asian and Pacific Islander art motifs, the flame form is integral to background patterns especially around dieties and dioramas. Flames are seen as ornamental screens on temples and patterns on clothing. In this piece, the flame and the lover are combined and presented in a box also with a mirroring flame on the primary design.

Left hymen made of neonatal foreskin cells and bovine collagen.
Final age: 2.5 weeks. Size: 1 ". Preserved by latex and plastic.

Right h ymen made of neonatal foreskin cells and bovine collagen.
Final age: 2.5 weeks. Size: 1 ". Preserved by dehydration.

Silver culture plates for cell growth. Pre-treated with poly-L-lysine for cell adhesion.

Wat Poy rural temple, artist unknown, year unknown, Thailand
(image source: Sweet Briar College, Virginia)

The upward points of this artistic style resemble flames or outward auras of persons. Ornamental art from oriental and islander cultures reflect a hybridity of each other's influence that is shown in regional and ethnic work. The transference of style between cultures is due to the frequency of travel and trade between islands and countries where forms of worship are shared along with craft.

Exterior: beechwood, gold & red paint, shellac, gold appliques.

Interior: culture plates (inside lid), magnifying boxes, hymens, yellow silk, LED lighting.

Click images below for detail on exhibition and tissue culture process.