Serpentine Folklore and Furniture

July 16 2009, 1:41pm

Fig. 1: Ancient Greek serpent worship. Snakes, more commonly referred to as serpents in mythology and religion, have held important positions in the dogmas of many cultures throughout history. They feature in the art and lore of Egyptian, Native American, African, Christian, Aboriginal, Indian, Judaic, and Ancient Greek (Fig. 1) and Roman civilization. Though serpents have and almost universal presence, their symbolic interpretations are not so uniform. Indigenous peoples of North America and Australia include serpents in their creation myths. Because of their ability to shed their skins, snakes have been viewed as a symbol of life force and immortality and regernation. The serpent goddesses of India and Ancient Egypt are both feared and revered, the latter assuming the role as both protector and destroyer of the pharoahs. In Judaism and Christianity the serpent is seen not as a powerful mother-figure, but rather is associated with temptation and evil. The serpentine monsters of Anient Greek mythology, including snake-haired Medusa, are other examples of serpents seen as harmful rather than beneficial. Fig. 2: Giltwood and Mahogany Center Table in the Manner of K.F. Schinkel. Carlton Hobbs LLC. A common belief held by Egyptian and African cultures was that when a serpent grows old, wings grow from its body. Revived interest in Ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian civilizations in the 18th and 19th centuries resulted in the development of neoclassical and revival styles in the decorative arts. Classical architecture and motifs, including serpents, were incorporated into contemporary buildings, interior design and furniture. This German center table in the manner of Karl Friedrich Schinkel (Fig. 2), is supported by a base of three winged serpents banded  together at the center.

Fig. 3: Highly Unusual Chandelier in the Manner of Edgar Brandt. Carlton Hobbs LLC. Egyptian styles would also influence the Art Deco movement of the early 20th century. Sleek interpretations of Egyptian furniture and objects were produced by companies like Tiffany & Co. From the 20s to the 30s French metalsmith Edgar Brandt produced serpent lamps, in collaboration with Daum Nancy who provided the shades. This chandelier, in the manner of Brandt (Fig. 3), is comprised of alabaster shades supported by twelve cobra heads.

Resource: Eason, Cassandra. Fabulous Creatures, Mythical Monsters, and Animal Power Symbols: A Handbook. Westport, Conn: Greenwood Press, 2007. Fig.1 : Photo: Harrison, J.E., Epilegomena to the Study of Greek Religion and Themis, University Books, New Hyde Park, New York, p. 495, 1962.