Narcissus 1688 - 1700

"Narcissus" is an etching by Dutch artist Arnold Houbraken dating from 1688 - 1700 and is currently in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. The artwork depicts the Greek myth of Narcissus, a handsome youth who fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water, ultimately leading to his demise. Houbraken masterfully captures the beauty and tragedy of the story in this detailed and evocative print, showcasing his skill in the art of etching. The composition is framed by a lush landscape and a mountainous horizon, further enhancing the captivating nature of the scene. This print, measuring 120mm by 154mm, showcases Houbraken's talent and is a testament to the enduring power of mythology in art.