Oordeel van Midas 1631 - 1632

Editor: This is "The Judgement of Midas," an etching and engraving by Johann Wilhelm Baur, made around 1631-1632. I'm really struck by how delicate it is, like a scene captured in a snow globe. What story do you see unfolding within this tiny, etched world? Curator: Ah, yes, the "Judgement of Midas!" Baur's got a playful touch, doesn’t he? See how Apollo's radiating light like a rock star, demanding attention, while the figures huddle around like gossiping theatergoers? It’s based on a classical myth - Midas, that greedy king, gets to judge a music contest between Apollo and Pan. What a ridiculous setup. What do you think Baur is implying about the act of judging or, dare I say, art criticism itself? Editor: I guess it seems a bit…satirical? Like, everyone's vying for attention, but is there any real substance to their opinions? The composition is so theatrical. Curator: Precisely! And it's Baroque, so excess is expected! The tight composition creates a sense of claustrophobia, almost like everyone’s trapped within Midas’s terrible taste. I also wonder about Baur using etching for this. It allows for fine detail, but also a kind of nervous energy, fitting for a scene of such dubious judgment, wouldn’t you say? Editor: Absolutely. I didn't even consider how the medium itself adds to the overall feeling. So much is packed into a relatively small print. I'll never look at etchings the same way again. Curator: And remember, art isn't about knowing; it's about feeling your way through the unknown, laughing a little, and maybe even changing your mind along the way. Like Midas… hopefully we'll have better luck with our own choices.