Illustration to the Iliad 1795

John Flaxman's 1795 "Illustration to the Iliad" depicts a scene from the epic poem. It features a chariot pulled by four horses, driven by a goddess likely representing Athena. Three figures, likely representing the Fates, are seen above in the sky, symbolizing the destiny of the Trojan War. Flaxman was a renowned Neoclassical sculptor and draftsman known for his intricate linework and mythological themes. The composition is balanced and uses light to create depth, a hallmark of Neoclassical art. This illustration, like many of Flaxman's works, was created to accompany a literary text, in this case, Homer's epic poem.