Homecoming to Australian Troops (two of six murals)
Artist
David Henry Souter
(1862 - 1935)
Date1920
Object number00055525
NameMural
MediumOil paints on wood panel.
DimensionsOverall: 583 x 4,200 x 55 mm,
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection funded by Australian National Maritime Museum Foundation
DescriptionTwo of six murals of various themes painted by David Henry Souter between 1920 and 1934 that hung on the walls of the Bondi Surf Life Saving Club.
This second panel portrays the return of the Australian Infantry Forces to their homeland after the war.HistoryHenry Souter, along with artists such as Sydney Long and Norman and Lionel Lindsay was part of a movement known as the Australian Classical revivalists that blended classical figures and pagan spirits with Australian landscapes. Their work was closely linked with the nationalism of the pre-Federation and post WW1 periods.
This panel portrays the return of the Australian Infantry Forces to their homeland after the war. The first scene depicts a fleet being welcomed by a group of people, followed by men working the field as a woman holding a baby looks on. Finally, an allegorical figure resting on the escutcheon of the Australian Coat of Arms observes the scene. This last section of the mural references the Anzacs and bush pioneers forging a new nationhood.
The Bondi murals are bold and evocative, all five panels combined, reflect themes including heroism, defence, militarism, self-sacrifice, the surf-life saving movement and beach culture in Australia.SignificanceWith his military and surf lifesaving background, Henry Souter was ideally placed to draw on these Australian themes of heroism to create these monumental panels. The works depict themes which have helped to shape our national identity – the diggers at Gallipoli, bush pioneers, the bronzed surfer, and a fit and healthy population enjoying their leisure at the beach.
Parent (child)/Child (parent)