Phaeton Asking for the Chariot 1590

"Phaeton Asking for the Chariot" (1590) is an engraving by the Dutch artist Hendrick Goltzius (c. February 1558 - January 1, 1617). The print depicts the mythological story of Phaeton, the son of the sun god Helios, who demands to drive his father's chariot. Goltzius' detailed and expressive style is evident in the figures, the architectural setting, and the dramatic composition. This engraving exemplifies the Mannerist trend of exaggerated poses and dynamic movement found in works of the late Renaissance. The print showcases Goltzius' skill in representing light and shadow through the use of hatching and cross-hatching techniques. The artwork is a testament to the enduring power of classical mythology and its impact on Western art.