Narcissus 1560 - 1600

This engraving of Narcissus was made by Johann Sadeler around 1600. Here, we see Narcissus captivated by his reflection, a potent symbol of self-obsession. The pool, acting as a mirror, is not merely a reflective surface but a portal to a deeper psychological truth. The theme of reflection appears in the myth of Perseus, who used a mirrored shield to avoid the deadly gaze of Medusa, transforming a potential weapon of death into an instrument of self-preservation. In contrast, Narcissus succumbs to the allure of his own image. This motif echoes through history, reappearing in various forms. Consider the story of the Tower of Babel, where the obsession with reaching the heavens led to fragmentation and confusion. Similarly, Narcissus' fixation leads to his demise, a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked self-regard. This image resonates even today, in an age dominated by social media and the relentless pursuit of self-image. It serves as a timeless allegory of the human condition, a cyclical drama of self-discovery and self-destruction.