Illustration to the Iliad 1795

This 1795 illustration by John Flaxman depicts a scene from Homer's epic poem "The Iliad," specifically the moment when the goddess Iris, appearing as a messenger from Zeus, urges the god Apollo to protect the Trojan hero Hector. Iris, a figure with flowing robes, is depicted flying through the air, while Apollo, in his chariot pulled by two horses, rides alongside Hector. The detailed linework and the dynamic composition create a sense of urgency and action, capturing the dramatic narrative of the poem. This is one of many illustrations that Flaxman created for the Iliad, demonstrating his mastery of Neoclassical style, which aimed to emulate the aesthetics of ancient Greek art.