'Who's afraid of Beowulf?'

Colourful fantasy scene showing humans being chased into a helicopter by fantasy creatures

Painted 1991. Futura/Orbit, 1991

In British author Tom Holt’s 1988 book a longship full of enchanted Viking warriors is unearthed by archaeologists. Awoken from their slumber they pursue their centuries-old quest to vanquish the powers of evil (the Sorcerer King). Kirby’s painting describes the farcical action as they cope with both their mission and modern technology.

Used with the permission of the Trustees of the Josh Kirby Estate.

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