This piece is based on the Arthurian Legend of the Lady of the Lake. It is said that Excalibur was thrown back into the lake (by sir Bedevere) at the request of the dying king Arthur. When he finally threw the sword into the lake, a hand appeared and caught it from mid air. It was the Lady of the Lake who took the magic sword back to the depths of the waters. This story always inspired me a lot, and I finally decided to paint the scene as I see it in my imagination. The water of the lake is like a mirror. There is no wrinkle to be seen. I think that the contrast of a flat lake and the sudden appearance of the hand (with the huge splash) added a bit more action to this painting. I loved working on the water drops and details of the sword. I designed the sword myself. In the background you can see the contours of Avalon. The islands are fading away in the mists.