Hollis Communion Table
60-78”L x 24”W x 38”H
Maple, Pine, Horn, Leather
The Hollis Communion Table is a contemporary design based on Christian iconographic traditions stretching back two millennia. It is constructed from the wood of two maples removed for construction of the church’s new communal patio. The table’s overall form mirrors that of the celebrant during communion and the central circular motif encapsulates three distinct but complementary themes.
The long overhang of the top and the gentle taper of the legs reflect the celebrant’s outstretched arms and the drape of their robe during the communion service. It is a gesture of welcome and thanksgiving for God’s blessings and an invitation for the congregation to join together around the table and share communion.
Starting at the floor the legs gently sweep up, leading our eyes up towards the table’s apron. The curve of the legs transitions to the uplifting arc of the apron and draws our eyes towards the central circular inlay. This inlay incorporates three layers of meaning.
The circular shape symbolizes the entrance to Jesus’ tomb and the stone that was rolled away to reveal his resurrection. It invites us to consider his sacrifice and our own relationship to his teachings.
The inlay itself is made of ox horn. The ox, one of the four faces of god, is an ancient Christian symbol of redemption through sacrifice and variously attributed to the gospels of both Luke and Mark. This symbol reminds us that Jesus was a servant of God and sacrificed himself to forgive our sins.
Layered underneath the translucent ox horn is a circular golden nimbus that helps illuminate the inlay. This nimbus is a common iconographic element on Christian artwork from the late Roman Empire through the middle ages. It is typically a golden disc placed behind the head of Jesus, Mary or the saints to symbolize their divinity.
