Glyn Warren Philpot

Repose on the Flight into Egypt

1922

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In Tate Britain

Walk Through British Art: 1910

Free entry
Artist
Glyn Warren Philpot 1884–1937
Medium
Oil paint on canvas
Dimensions
Support: 749 x 1161 x 25 mm
Collection
Tate
Acquisition
Purchased 2004
Reference
T11861

Display caption

Glyn Philpot brings an unusual interpretation to the subject of the Holy Family resting on the flight into Egypt by incorporating mythological figures including a sphinx, a satyr and three centaurs. Philpot’s presentation of the mythological creatures alludes to pagan myths of unrestrained sexuality, and the implication is that this will be replaced by the new religion of Christianity. The Holy Family are seen sheltering against a huge sculpture from a ruined building, fragments of which appear in the background. This dream-like work has been interpreted as an attempt by Philpot to reconcile his adopted Catholicism and his sexual attraction to other men.

Gallery label, March 2018

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Glyn Warren Philpot, ‘Repose on the Flight into Egypt’ 1922
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A Queer Little History of Art: Repose on the Flight into Egypt

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