Oordeel van Paris en de roof van Helena van Troje 1639

Curator: Let’s take a closer look at "The Judgement of Paris and the Rape of Helen," an engraving made in 1639 by Jérôme David. The print is held here at the Rijksmuseum. It captures a pivotal moment from Greek mythology. What strikes you first about it? Editor: The dramatic tension, definitely. The swirling composition, figures interlocked, a visual push and pull towards that chaotic escape. Curator: Precisely. The entire narrative hinges on the abduction of Helen, a powerful symbol of desire and discord. Do you notice how Minerva, a representation of war and strategy, is depicted behind them? The artist's juxtaposition of love and impending conflict speaks volumes. Editor: Absolutely. And that chariot pulled by doves above them adds an ironic lightness to what is, essentially, an act of war, sparked by lust. It is cleverly laid out through contrast between the darkness down below and the brightness up high. Curator: It's interesting how the artist chose to represent Aphrodite above in her chariot in this narrative too. Doves are associated with Aphrodite’s power in matters of the heart. This engraving is not simply retelling the story of Paris’ choice and abduction, but also speaking to the larger allegorical ideas about destiny, free will, and consequences. Editor: The engraving style itself, with its stark contrast and incredibly fine lines, further enhances that sense of drama. Notice the ships heading off, filled with Helen, Paris and company, heading for what will become, ultimately, destruction and disaster. It also makes me wonder, in what form would these figures return over the next centuries of artworks retelling their saga? Curator: Each age has re-imagined Helen and Paris in ways that echo cultural values, fears and hopes. This print in particular has immortalized one dramatic scene in the epic cycle. Editor: Thinking about that carefully constructed composition, I can see that this image presents not just the subject of rape, but of something beginning: Paris is off to found what he believes will be an entirely new empire of love. This piece carries such a grand range of interpretation in what can often appear as a simple historic engraving.