Diana 1660

Lucas Vorsterman the Younger created this engraving, Diana, in the mid-17th century. It reflects a period where classical mythology was reinterpreted through the lens of the Baroque era. Here, Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt, moon, and wilderness, is depicted with her traditional attributes: the crescent moon on her head, a hunting spear, and a dog, all symbols of her independence and connection to nature. The gaze is direct, a break from the demure glances often seen in depictions of women at the time. This Diana exudes a sense of self-assuredness. What’s also striking is the emotional complexity Vorsterman captures. He invites us to consider the multifaceted nature of feminine power and autonomy during a period of immense social and political change. Diana represents not just a mythological figure, but a symbol of agency and resilience.