Menelaüs vertrekt naar Kreta en beveelt Aeneas aan Helena 1677 - 1755

"Menelaüs vertrekt naar Kreta en beveelt Aeneas aan Helena" (Menelaus Departs to Crete and Entrusts Aeneas to Helen) is a watercolor drawing by Elias van Nijmegen, created between 1677 and 1755. The artwork depicts a scene from Greek mythology, where Menelaus, King of Sparta, leaves for Crete, leaving his wife Helen in the care of Aeneas, the Trojan hero. The composition shows the figures in a classical setting with columns and an open space, reminiscent of Roman ruins. The drawing's sketchy style with delicate washes of watercolor adds to the sense of drama and movement within the scene, showcasing the artistic approach of Van Nijmegen in capturing the essence of this mythical moment.