Perseus onthoofdt Medusa 1655 - 1699

Jean Louis Roullet's engraving depicts Perseus beheading Medusa, immortalizing a pivotal moment from Greek mythology. Here, Medusa is shown at the moment of decapitation, her serpentine locks signifying both her monstrous nature and the potent, primal fear she evokes. Perseus, guided by Athena, uses a reflective shield, a symbol of intellect overcoming instinct, to sever Medusa’s head. This scene, laden with psychological tension, echoes through art history, reappearing in various forms, from ancient pottery to Renaissance sculptures. Consider Caravaggio's shield depicting Medusa, where the severed head becomes a visceral emblem of horror. The act of beheading itself is a powerful symbol, representing not just physical death but also the conquering of inner demons and the triumph of reason over chaos. This imagery touches deep, subconscious chords, evoking both fear and fascination, a testament to the enduring power of these ancient symbols.