By The Witches' Cauldron

Each time I wander through the National Gallery, a different painting would leave its mark on my soul long after I leave. The last round, I was enthralled by Joachim Beuckelaer's "The Four Elements". This time, I'm fascinated by Salvator Rosa's "Witches At Their Incantations". It's by no means a happy painting. Luckily the gallery shop has got postcards of this painting for me to have as a keepsake.

Salvator Rosa is said to be a tempestuous artist. Done in his fiery Baroque style, It's got naked (not pretty like Willow in Buffy) witches (or crones if you will) doing macabre activities and grotesque creatures milling around. All his painting of witches are very dramatic and well, almost gothic.

But who's to say these aren't reflections of actual human thoughts, (mis) deeds and actions? Look closer and the painting seems to reflect the politicking, murders, backstabbing, jealousy, petty theft, facebook and online stalking, hate crimes, etc and all that is wrong with our society. Peer at the grim background- that could fast become reality if we don't take care of the environment and the earth we step on. In a world to be, we might not see patches of green anymore.

One other painting also spoke to me. It's the one hanging next to Witches. It's titled "Landscape with Mercury and the Dishonest Woodman". The landscape is simple and complex all at the same time. Its complexity belies the maturity of Salvator Rosa's brush strokes. Its simplicity lies in the meaning of the painting. Aesop's Fables are for us to remind ourselves about the basic morals of life and to tell children stories that they may remember to do things right. Today, I re-read the fable of Mercury and the Woodman. That struck a note with me.

I love these afternoons at the museums and galleries. Food for the soul indeed.