[ 01 ]
EACH ALTAR IS ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤMADE TO ORDER
THE ALCHEMY
OF METAL ALTAR
A sculptural system rooted in Hellenistic cosmology, planetary hours, and the seven classical metals—each corresponding to distinct faculties of life—drawing on ancient alchemical practice.
ㅤㅤㅤA sitting altar.
ㅤㅤㅤThe Alchemy of Metals Altar materializes the ancient correspondence between metals, planets, and human faculties as a functional process and engineered relationship between material and time. Each metal component is forged during its governing planetary hour and sealed with its associated planetary and metal sigil, integrating cosmological timing as a structural part of the work.
[ 02 ]
THE ALTAR BASE
A volcanic foundation — a geological memory medium
The base is carved from basalt: a fine-grained mafic igneous stone rich in silica-bearing minerals and iron oxides.
ㅤㅤㅤIn Earth science, basalt is prized as a paleomagnetic recorder: as lava cools, magnetic minerals lock in a stable remanent signature—technically, thermoremanent magnetization (TRM)—preserving a record of Earth’s geomagnetic field across deep time.
In Vestali’s language,
ㅤㅤㅤthis is matter as memory: a grounding platform shaped by deep time, anchoring the ritual system in Earth’s geologic record.
The surface features three precisely carved and hand-polished depressions, creating designated stations for the alchemical process—supporting fire, water, and spirit work through the placement of vessels and ritual elements (candles, incense in holders, live florals, matches, herbs, oils in containers, or other objects corresponding to an individual’s practice).
[ 03 ]
MATERIALS AS TECHNOLOGY
The altar’s proprietary brass alloy (copper + zinc) is intentionally left without a chemical seal, allowing the metal to remain responsive—developing patina, holding trace, and recording the imprint of touch.
ㅤㅤㅤThis increases the need for stewardship (polishing) while preserving the integrity of the object as a living interface between hand, time, and element.
[ 04 ]
Each altar includes seven sculptural metal components corresponding to the seven classical planets and foundations of life.
ㅤㅤㅤThe surfaces are finished using an ancient Egyptian hand-polishing technique, leaving subtle evidence of handcraft—minute inclusions, tonal variation, and fine marks that confirm touch and time.
ㅤㅤㅤA defining central finial—measuring three-quarters of an inch is positioned at the center, serving as a focal point for concentration and an anchoring point for the altar.
[ 05 ]
THE METALS ALTAR FUNCTIONS AS
[ 06 ]
[ ] a meditative instrument for reflection and inner transformation
[ ] a symbolic architecture designed to support presence, coherence, and alignment
[ ] a harmonized planetary system made tangible for contemplative practice
[ 06 ]
ACQUISITION | ㅤㅤCOMMISSIONSㅤㅤ | INSTALLATIONS
Vestali’s works are available through private acquisition, bespoke commission, and institutional collaboration, including large-scale installations and museum exhibition contexts.
ㅤㅤㅤAll inquiries are handled exclusively via Fairfax Dorn Projects.
