Scrying Glasses

Jonathan Anderson

One must still have chaos in oneself to
be able to give birth to a dancing star
Scrying Glasses
Jonathan Anderson's artwork balances whimsy and solemnity, evoking a quiet power that invites viewers to interpret the surreal and paradoxical elements of the piece. Anderson's sculpture acts as a meditative portal, connecting the viewer to layers of storytelling that feel at once ancient and fresh. His work embodies a dialogue with nature, mystery, and the human spirit.
Scrying Glasses, inspired by the 17th-century legend of the Brahan Seer, blend Scottish mysticism with modern design. The glasses feature a flint adder stone, attached by copper wire to the right side of the frame, reminiscent of the magical stone through which the Brahan Seer was said to gain his prophetic abilities.
With this piece, Anderson nods to Scotland's rich folklore and the timeless allure of prophecy and second sight. He aimed to transform an object to bridge premodern folklore with modern technology, inviting reflection on how mythic ideas might be woven into our technology-driven world.
Jonathan Anderson
Scotland
Jonathan Anderson is a Scottish artist based in Dorset, UK.
Personal work
His work explores the boundaries between myth, mysticism and artefact creating pieces that feel rooted in folklore yet carry a contemporary resonance.