Parallel to the development of the Martelgang (Calvary), a series based on Christ's Passion, in Gnoothi Se Auton (1980) Jan Cox formulates a manner of (self)criticism with regard to artistic and human pride.  On a small nightstand that serves as pedestal, he positions a large skull made in polystyrene upon which he's written the ancient Delphic maxim “Gnoothi se auton”, or "know thyself", and - particularly in antiquity - this often took the meaning "(mortals) know your limitations".  Alongside the recurring quest for the good and for freedom, he makes us understand - via the white painted arrow, a memento mori - the we must all eventually come to our mortal end.  In works such as Gnoothi Se Auton (1980), Jan Cox brings together diverse materials full of existential despair and hope.