The Touch of Midas

The Touch of Midas depicts a well-known king of Greek mythology, popularly remembered for his ability to turn everything he touches into gold. Being a king of excessive wealth and exceptional greed, he at first rejoices in his new power. But soon, when delicious food turns to tasteless gold in his mouth and soft pillows to harsh metal beneath his head, he regrets his decision to accept it. A porcelain figure of King Midas admires himself in the mirrored surface of a can of gold spray paint, entranced by the golden objects that drape and surround him. While painting this reflection, notably using the same brush and tube of gold paint at the center of the composition, the artist also reflects on this story’s message of greed and vanity.