The “Reichsapfel” from Veit Korn’s “Ritual Sphere” series draws its name from the regal and symbolic orb historically used as part of the regalia of European monarchs, particularly within the Holy Roman Empire. The term “Reichsapfel,” or Imperial Orb, represents authority, unity, and the divine order, making this piece deeply rooted in cultural and historical significance. By reinterpreting this emblem in basalt lava sourced from Mount Etna, Korn bridges the power and permanence of natural materials with the historical resonance of the orb. The sphere’s carefully crafted design incorporates walnut wood bands and soapstone cross points, which echo the orb’s traditional associations with the earth’s axis and the four cardinal directions, signifying balance and universality. The meticulous surface treatments—chiseled, ground, and partially polished—further emphasize the raw yet refined character of the piece. Accompanied by a signed certificate, “Reichsapfel” becomes more than a sculptural object; it is a contemporary homage to history, inviting reflection on the interplay between tradition, nature, and artistry.
