Apollo and Daphne 1640 - 1690

Anthonie Waterloo created the etching Apollo and Daphne during the Dutch Golden Age, a period marked by immense shifts in social structures and cultural values. Waterloo depicts a mythological scene set within an imposing landscape, yet this classical narrative unfolds within a very real historical context. The dynamic chase between Apollo and Daphne raises questions about power, desire, and transformation, reflecting the era’s shifting views on gender and autonomy. Consider how Daphne’s transformation into a tree can be interpreted as resistance against Apollo’s pursuit. The etching embodies a deeply human story of evasion and survival, as Daphne rejects the traditional roles imposed upon women. In this flight, the dense, enveloping forest can be seen as a sanctuary. In all, Apollo and Daphne becomes a poignant commentary on personal agency and societal expectations.