Aeneas, Evander en Pallas in een landschap 1861 - 1889

This engraving by William Unger captures a scene from Virgil’s Aeneid. Here we see Aeneas meeting Evander and his son Pallas in a landscape, each figure laden with symbolic weight. The landscape itself is significant. The cave-like structure may represent a site of primal wisdom and initiation. Now, let us consider the motif of the ‘meeting.’ This motif echoes through time—think of the Three Magi, or the Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon. In each instance, the meeting signifies a moment of cultural exchange and recognition of power. Notice the way Pallas is presented. His youth and openness, as he sits reading, embody potential. Yet, tragically, his fate is sealed: Pallas will die in battle. Herein lies the crux of this scene—it is a moment of foreshadowing. The encounter, full of hope and alliance, carries the weight of impending loss. This juxtaposition engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, reminding us of the cyclical nature of life and death. Thus, the motifs of the meeting, the cave, and youthful innocence contribute to a rich tapestry of emotions and meanings that Unger weaves into this seemingly simple encounter.