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Fer a Cheval, 2016

The horseshoe is a magical protective amulet and sign of good luck. The origin of the legend is traced back to Saint Dunstan, a blacksmith who nailed a red hot horseshoe to the devil’s hoof causing him great pain. The saint bargained with the devil and agreed to remove the shoe if the devil agreed to never enter a house or building with a horseshoe hung above the door. Others believe it is the shape alone that gives horseshoes their magical powers since it replicates the very shape of the pagan crescent or horned moon from which it is believed that horseshoes draw their power. Creating the horseshoe involves sacred fire (red on the painting), iron and human effort to create shape. Life circumstances (black and blue colours of background) which are protected by this symbol may transform into success and prosperity (yellow-gold colours).