Karon færger Psyche over Styx 1909

Oluf Hartmann created this small print, "Charon Ferries Psyche across the Styx," around the turn of the 20th century in Denmark, using etching. It presents a scene from classical mythology ripe with symbolism. The image invites reflection on the cultural moment of its creation, a time when artists frequently turned to mythological subjects to explore themes of death and transformation. Hartmann’s choice of this particular myth reflects a broader interest in psychological themes, with Psyche representing the soul’s journey through the underworld. The etching technique, with its stark contrasts, enhances the dramatic tension. The artist’s institutional training at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts would have instilled in him an appreciation for classical themes and technical skill. To fully grasp Hartmann’s work, one could delve into the art criticism of the period, examining how his contemporaries interpreted similar subjects. Art history thrives on uncovering these layers, revealing how art mirrors and shapes its world.