Head of a Tyrant is a symbol of justice, consequence, and mortality. Informed by the interlocking messages of Judith and Holofernes and The Brazen Serpent, Melissa imagines the severed head of the tyrant within the context of facing fear and overcoming the terror of injustice and tyranny.
Just as Judith was empowered to commit a horrific yet necessary act to free her people, Moses faced the wrath of fiery serpents and, in the process, became immune to their venom. The tyrant’s head, gorgonesque in its relationship with the snake, is a stark reminder of our individual capacity to overcome our greatest barriers, while reminding us of the necessity to keep our ego in check.
This painting, a meditation on power and consequence, is among the most hauntingly introspective works from Melissa’s exhibition The Flight of the Battery Hens. Now offered as a highly limited print edition, Head of a Tyrant invites reflection on courage, justice, and the transformative act of confronting fear itself.
Limited edition of 100
30 x 40 cm (to scale with original painting)
Archival ink on Hahnemühle German Etching Rag 310gsm
Hand signed and numbered with certificate of authenticity
**Works will be made, signed, and shipped from Monday 24th November.
To ensure arrival before Christmas, orders must be placed by 1st December.
Prices are in AUD. International shipping available.
Head of a Tyrant is a symbol of justice, consequence, and mortality. Informed by the interlocking messages of Judith and Holofernes and The Brazen Serpent, Melissa imagines the severed head of the tyrant within the context of facing fear and overcoming the terror of injustice and tyranny.
Just as Judith was empowered to commit a horrific yet necessary act to free her people, Moses faced the wrath of fiery serpents and, in the process, became immune to their venom. The tyrant’s head, gorgonesque in its relationship with the snake, is a stark reminder of our individual capacity to overcome our greatest barriers, while reminding us of the necessity to keep our ego in check.
This painting, a meditation on power and consequence, is among the most hauntingly introspective works from Melissa’s exhibition The Flight of the Battery Hens. Now offered as a highly limited print edition, Head of a Tyrant invites reflection on courage, justice, and the transformative act of confronting fear itself.
Limited edition of 100
30 x 40 cm (to scale with original painting)
Archival ink on Hahnemühle German Etching Rag 310gsm
Hand signed and numbered with certificate of authenticity
**Works will be made, signed, and shipped from Monday 24th November.
To ensure arrival before Christmas, orders must be placed by 1st December.
Prices are in AUD. International shipping available.
