A famous painting connected to one of the First World War’s most remarkable legends has gone on display at The Atkinson in Southport.
The Angels of Mons, painted by Belgian artist Marcel Gillis, forms part of The Atkinson Art Gallery Collection and is featured in a new exhibition exploring the story behind the mysterious wartime figures.
The legend emerged following the Battle of Mons in Belgium in August 1914, when British soldiers faced advancing German forces during the opening weeks of the conflict.
Stories began to spread that the troops had been protected by angelic figures or ghostly archers led by Saint George. The tale offered hope and comfort to people during the dark early days of the war.
The story was inspired by The Bowmen, a fictional short story written by Arthur Machen, but many people came to believe that the supernatural events had genuinely taken place.
It soon became one of Britain’s best-known wartime legends.
Cllr Liz Dowd, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Libraries, said:
“This painting is significant because it captures the power of belief, hope and imagination during wartime.
“And for local residents, the exhibition has an extra meaning as Sefton has been twinned with Mons since 1964, creating a long-standing friendship between the two communities”.
The free exhibition has been created in partnership with the Mons Memorial Museum and celebrates the shared history and lasting friendship between Sefton and the Belgian city.
Visitors can learn more about the Battle of Mons, the origins of the legend and how stories and symbols can influence the way people understand war.
Through the painting and accompanying displays, the exhibition also explores how people search for comfort and courage during difficult times and how shared stories can bring communities together across international borders.
The Angels of Mons exhibition is free to visit at The Atkinson and runs until Saturday 17 October 2026.
People can find out more about the exhibition, the Atkinson and its busy schedule of events exhibitions and productions on the website.
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