Portret van Zeno van Elea 1699

Bernard Picart created this print of Zeno of Elea, a Greek philosopher, sometime between 1673 and 1733. The piece reflects the 17th and 18th-century fascination with classical antiquity, but it also raises questions about representation and identity. As an engraver, Picart was tasked with translating images and ideas, often shaping the perception of historical figures for contemporary audiences. Zeno, known for his paradoxes challenging the nature of reality, is rendered here with a thoughtful, almost melancholic expression. The image invites us to consider how historical figures are reimagined through the lens of different eras. What does it mean to create an image of someone whose essence lies in abstract thought? It underscores the complexities of historical interpretation, urging us to reflect on how we construct and engage with the past.