[Gallipoli figures in battle I]

Group of Gallipoli figures in combat, half immersed in the sea water. The work refers to links between Anzac's and classical figures; for example, Herakles and Antaeus, wrestling giants, or Homeric heroes in battle. The soldiers wrestling also relates to black figure pottery of the 7th century BC. Black figure pottery usually represented the Gods or the heroes of Greek history and mythology engaged in scenes of battle and hunting. When the Anzac's arrived at Gallipoli, many British officers were awestruck when faced with the tall, bronzed Anzac's that reminded them of the Greek heroes and gods. Much was written by the British officers and soldiers about this resemblance at the time. The Australians discarded much of their uniform, often only wearing boots, shorts and hat when going into battle.