Scylla vlucht voor Glaucus 1748

This engraving, titled "Scylla vlucht voor Glaucus," presents a dramatic scene rendered with striking contrasts. The use of fine lines creates a sense of depth and movement within the small frame. The eye is drawn to the central figure of Scylla, whose contorted posture and flowing drapery convey a sense of panic and flight. The composition is structured around the interplay between light and shadow, which accentuates the horror of Scylla who is being hounded by monstrous dogs. The landscape, rendered in sparse detail, adds to the overall sense of foreboding. In this mythological scene, we can discern a deeper commentary on the nature of power and vulnerability, and the terror of transformation. The artist uses the visual language of Baroque allegory to comment on contemporary society. Scylla, hounded by monstrous dogs, mirrors the idea of the Netherlands being hounded by its Pachterdom or ruling classes. Through its formal elements, the artwork prompts viewers to contemplate the instabilities and uncertainties of the world.