A three-storey, 12-metre-high sculpture measuring 365-squaremetres in total area, Joana Vasconcelos’ monumental ‘Wedding Cake’ for the Rothschild Foundation is completed each time a pair of visitors stands atop the artwork like the traditional bride and groom figures on the traditional confectionery versions. The structure, developed by Metal Azóia, completed with waterfalls and an intricate lighting system, is covered, inside and out, with artisanal tiles and ceramic pieces from the traditional Portuguese manufactory Viúva Lamego. Inspired by the exuberant Baroque and decorative traditions from the city of Lisbon, where the artist lives and works, visitors may pre-book a tour of the installation in the Waddesdon sculpture park, England, where the Dairy is included. In the tradition of the Rothschild family’s festive pavilions, and in a dialogue with their exquisite ceramics collection, this installation offers visitors from around world an immersive experience that will remain in the memories and photographs of families to come. A cross between pâtisserie and architecture, it is above all “a temple to love”.

RECIPE FOR WEDDING CAKE

Ingredients:
1 powerful idea
1 visionary patron
2 international teams
Pinch of experts
3500 wrought iron parts
21,815kg iron sheet
Circa 25,150 Viúva Lamego ceramic tiles (99 different types)
1,238 Viúva Lamego ceramic pieces (52 different types)
Plethora of ornaments: mermaids, dolphins, candles, globes, etc
Indoor and outdoor lights: 592 light points and circa 3.000 meters optical fiber
Water system
Hope, belief and effort

Preparation:
Blend everything with generous amounts of creativity and patience. Bind into different panels; raise tier by tier to height of 12 meters. Assemble at Waddesdon. Serve with love.