Votum

Ritual and Symbolism

A fragmented, round bowl-like sculpture adorned with symbols and letters, finished in blue-grey hues

Interior of a round bowl-like sculpture with rusty wire, symbols and letters

2025 Air-hardening clay, wire netting, rusted wire and acrylic paint

Ritual and symbolism have surrounded the cauldron throughout history. It has been associated with myths and legends, gods and goddesses, votive offerings, magic, healing, knowledge and immortality.

'Votum' is a fantasy piece in celebration of my local Northern Lincolnshire Romano Britons, the fusion of their cultures and their symbolism. For them, such a cauldron, adorned with triskeles and spirals, would have represented not only feasting and abundance, but the cycle of life, death and regeneration.

Spirited horses of the Corieltauvi tribe encircle the cauldron, whilst stylised Roman bow brooches form the handle supports.

Such a cauldron may have been intended as a votive offering, made in the hope that prayers might be answered. The Cauldron carries the inscription VOT from the Latin 'votum' meaning a vow or promise; a solemn pledge made to a Roman deity.

'Votum' was part of the group exhibition 'Folklore', September/October 2025 - Fronteer Gallery, Sheffield