Christ Rests in Peace: Lent installation at Southwark Cathedral

A new sculpture by Nic Fiddian-Green will be in place in front of the High Altar at Southwark Cathedral until 30 March 2013. It will be the focus for contemplation for those who visit the cathedral during Lent and Holy Week.

Nic Fiddian-Green is well known for his huge, classically inspired equine heads that are exhibited around the world. Making the sculpture was a complex project. Plaster was firstly placed on a cast; then a resin created. Lead sheets were then beaten on this in sections around the form. Detail was added using a chisel and finally a gold crown of thorns was gilded.

Speaking of this work Nic Fiddian-Green said: ‘I have been working on the subject of the face of Christ for over 20 years ‘with no place in mind’, so when it was proposed to me to install a work at Southwark, I realised it was all out of my hands. It is a great honour and opportunity to reveal this work in a sacred and spiritual place. I am delighted that this work is at the very centre of our capital and will be seen by the Cathedral’s many visitors.”

The Very Revd Andrew Nunn, Dean of Southwark, comments: ‘We are delighted to have ‘Christ Rests in Peace’ in Southwark Cathedral throughout Lent. For so many Christians singing the hymn ‘The head that once was crowned with thorns’ is a regular reminder of the reality of the crucifixion. Nic Fiddian-Green’s representation of the head of Jesus crowned with thorns is powerful not just because of its sheer size but also because when you look beyond the thorns you see the humanity in the face of Christ’.

Nic Fiddian-Green will speak about his work and the inspiration for ‘Christ Rests in Peace’ at Southwark Cathedral during Lent. Admission to the work is during Cathedral opening hours and is free of charge.