Kiss of Victory

Kiss of Victory, Sir Alfred Gilbert, 1879-1881

The best pieces of art to me have passion, skill, and beauty. Of course there’s something to be said for the disturbing, grotesque art. Which would be “eww.”  But I’m talking about the pieces of art that make you feel something (other than a sick feeling in your gut). That tell the story before you read the informational plaque. A young warrior falls back in death and is greeted by a kiss of an angel. The skill alone to carve such an image is impressive. It also tells a story. His fight has helped bring victory. The angel kisses him as he dies; yet, this angel has a peaceful look because it knows this is not the end for him. What’s so beautiful about it is that it’s one end to a battle but there’s also a new beginning for the man.