The Judgment Of Paris 

Jacques Louis David made this oil on canvas painting entitled 'The Judgment of Paris.' It depicts Paris, a mortal shepherd, being asked to judge which of three goddesses is the most beautiful. This moment from Greek mythology reflects the Enlightenment fascination with classical antiquity, but it also speaks to France's own social and political climate in the late 1700s. David's painting presents a vision of ideal beauty and virtue rooted in classical forms. However, it also reflects the social conventions of his time. Notice the overt displays of wealth and power, such as the classical armor worn by one of the goddesses. It is a reminder of the entrenched power of the monarchy and aristocracy in pre-Revolutionary France. By studying the social, economic, and political history of this period, and through careful analysis of ancient texts, we can gain a deeper understanding of this painting. In this way we can appreciate how it both celebrates classical ideals, and comments on the social structures of its time.