The Seven Legends: Self Portrait

The Seven Legends: Self Portrait is inspired by the surrealists with its weird images and symbols, including demons and a cave fire in a strange dreamscape. Painted by Albert Richards when he was 20 in 1939, it possibly anticipated the unpleasant scenes he would encounter as a paratrooper in the Second World War, only dying when his armoured car hit a landmine by the Dutch River Maas in 1945.

In a distant part of the picture is a bearded victim of crucifixion, easily missed. If the picture is evidence of a disturbed or troubled mind, might the inclusion of the crucified Christ have offered him hope? Whatever the horrors and demons of this violent and vicious world, the tender voice of Jesus Christ gently whispers over its squalls and devils' shrieks:

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28