This hefty hammer stained and dented in the art of striking the nails home
Lies abandoned on a dusty windowsill
And drips blood as the oblique light casts curious shadows
Transforming a jar of nails into three crosses
These gold coins bear Caesar’s head
Payment for this unspeakable work and a heavy price.
The nails were sharp, well crafted, struck straight,
Bit easily into soft flesh, splintered bone and wood.
These are the tools for public humiliation.
This jar, expensive - alabaster perhaps
Holds a precious ointment or a healing salve.
It holds our hopes for private reconciliation
It is done now.

Location: Cookham stations of the cross

Details Acrylic on wood - not for sale