This piece is a tribute to the pilgrim in whatever form their journey takes.
The arrangement has the Iris at its head which is used as the fleur-di-lis in heraldry and, since the Middle Ages, is thought to have been symbolic of divine rule and also of the Virgin Mary as the Heavenly Queen. Either side of the Iris is Columbine (Acquilegia) its flower’s five petals form into the shape of a dove, symbolic of the Holy Spirit and of peace. The Columbine’s leaf divides into three so it also represents the Trinity.
The rest of the arrangement comprises peonies and roses. Peonies speak of lost abundance or bygone beauty and because they flower around Whitsun (Pentecost) they are also associated with the Holy Ghost and their triple leaves with the Trinity. The rose is the most common flower depicted in art since the Ancient Greeks, signifying every kind of love. They still represent devotion today and reference the Virgin Mary. The scent of the rose could be considered to be even more important that its beauty, a fragrance that lingers, like true love.
White birds’ feathers speak of distant travels and the broken egg could be interpreted as a new start because of the pilgrimage undertaken. The scallop shell has long been associated with pilgrimage, particularly with the Camino de Santiago. It is a metaphor for pilgrimage and the belief that the journey is more important than the destination.
Whether the recipient has undertaken a traditional pilgrimage or one where they spent time analysing their life and where it was taking them, this piece is dedicated to them.
The card is supplied with a matching white envelope and contained within a sealed, hygienic cello bag. All our cards are printed on sustainable 350gsm board by a printer just five miles from where the photograph is taken. We support local businesses whenever possible.
