The Shroud Eater

My new sculpture, The Shroud Eater, was created for my inclusion in Arch Enemy Arts’ group show, Imaginary Menagerie: Volume 7, opening October 2, 2026 in Philadelphia, PA.

Each participating artist selects a mythical creature or beast to interpret for the show. The focus of my sculpture is the North German legend of the Nachzehrer (NACH-xera). Following its death and burial, the Nachzehrer is a creature that continues a desire to be closer to the loved ones it left behind. From the grave it projects illness to those it longs for, intending to draw them into death. As surviving family and friends grow increasingly weaker, the Nachzehrer below feeds on its funeral shroud. After all burial cloth is ingested, the Nachzehrer begins to devour its own body. Among the ways to identify the Nachzehrer is the strange detail that it is always holding its thumb in its opposite hand.

Everything in this sculpture was hand made by me without the use of computers or 3D printing. The embroidery in this piece is specifically known as goldwork. Using metal threads, gold work is traditionally seen in religious vestments. Special thanks to Andrea Sapon and the Madison Area Embroiderers’ Guild, and especially the very talented Natalia Frank for patiently teaching me how to bring my goldwork ideas into reality. I couldn’t have done it without her.

Figure Twenty Three.- The Shroud Eater.
2026. 22.5”h x 13.5”w x 20”d.
Resin, Epoxy clay, Bronze, Mahogany, Gold Leaf, Silk, Goldwork embroidery threads, Acrylic, Stone, Glass, Hardware.

Finished sculpture photography by Bill Lemke.