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Timothy Hyman RA, Mid River: The Bearer

Mid River: The Bearer, 1995-8

Timothy Hyman RA (b. 1946)

RA Collection: Art

This is a complex allegorical painting which draws on many influences. It is a retelling of the story of Saint Christopher carrying the infant Christ across a river. There are, however, several layers of meaning.

The central figure represents the artist, but is in fact a portrait of the philosopher and novelist John Cowper Powys (1872-1963) who Hyman feels 'shaped' him. The child on his shoulder is an angelic' presence helping the artist through a difficult period of his life.

The river through which the artist strides is the Thames, with Tower Bridge visible in the distance, but the scattered figures suffering various indignities beneath his feet are reminiscent of tormented souls in a painting by Pieter Bruegel.

Object details

Title
Mid River: The Bearer
Artist/designer
Date
1995-8
Object type
Painting
Copyright owner
Dimensions

1530 mm x 1220 mm

Collection
Royal Academy of Arts
Object number
12/922
Acquisition
Diploma Work given by Timothy Hyman RA accepted 6 March 2012
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