Europe: Russia – Peace Table

Sacred Peace Table at the Russian Academy of Arts in Moscow, Russia

Russia • Dedicated in 2001

Sacred Peace Table

“Today the symbolic and practical message of understanding and conference is what matters so much, and I cannot overestimate its role. I do think that today the message of the table is even more relevant than ever. Peace is what we need and what we all pray for. That is why the Lofty Symbol of the Table as a spiritual crossroad, as a meeting point, makes more sense than ever. Mutual understanding between people and generations, parents and children, tribes and confessions is what really matters. The table is a remarkable work of art and craftsmanship, which sends a message of global significance, transcending borders and speaking in a universal language of its own.”

Sergei Kapitza 1989

Professor, Moscow Institute for Physics and Technology

Making of the Table

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From left, Irene Goldman, Kevin, Marion and Mira Nakashima meeting in the Nakashima Reception House, deciding to build the second Sacred Peace Table for Russia in 1995.

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The Nakashima crew, with master craftsman Gerald Everett on far right, laying out the planks that were adjacent to the first Altar.

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Mira Nakashima and master craftsman Gerald Everett discussing the best way to match and cut the enormous planks.

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Mira and Jerry marking one of the ends for cutting.

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Mira marking two ends for cutting.

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Mira and Jerry contemplating the trimmed boards.

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Further contemplation.

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A rosewood butterfly ready for inlay.

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Inlaying the butterfly to bridge a crack.

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All hands on deck to turn the Sacred Peace Table top on its side.

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One of the many coats of oil applied from a ladder.

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The Sacred Peace Table base standing in front of the top. Because of its size and weight, the decision was made to construct it in two parts for greater ease in moving and shipping.

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Finishing touches by master craftsman Jerry Everett.

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The completed and assembled Sacred Peace Table which traveled to the 50th Anniversary of the United Nations in 1995, then to the Hague Appeal for Peace 100th anniversary in 1999, and to its final destination for commemoration at the Russian Academy of Arts in 2001.