Sing a song of sixpence…

Artist: Peter NewellPeter Newell's painting, "Sing a song of sixpence…", brings a whimsical yet startling scene to life, inspired by the classic nursery rhyme. In this artful depiction, we witness a moment of surprise and chaos that surrounds the line "the king in his counting house." The painting captures the king, dressed in regal attire with a crown and a ruffled collar, as he experiences a surreal encounter. His face, painted with expressions of disbelief and alarm, turns upward towards a flurry of blackbirds emerging energetically from a pie.The scene is enriched with fine details that evoke a sense of 16th or 17th-century settings, such as the ornate wooden chair and the vintage design of the pie dish. The use of muted yet deep colors helps to contrast the dark, almost iridescent black of the birds against the interior backdrop, highlighting the sudden movement and the dynamic nature of the scene. The woman, possibly a maid, is equally surprised as the birds break free, her mouth agape in a silent scream that matches the king’s shock.This painting not only illustrates a line from a well-loved nursery rhyme but also encapsulates the unexpected and sometimes startling nature of life’s surprises. Newell's artistry beckons viewers to delve into the details and perhaps recall the playful yet mysterious tones of stories told in childhood.