Oordeel van Paris 1694 - 1766

"Oordeel van Paris," a drawing by Matthijs Balen, depicts the mythological tale of the Judgement of Paris. The scene portrays the Trojan prince, Paris, who is tasked with choosing the most beautiful goddess from among Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite, who are shown offering him gifts, while Cupid stands in the background. Created between 1694 and 1766, Balen's drawing masterfully captures the drama and intrigue of this ancient Greek myth, exemplifying the artist's skill in depicting human figures and their interactions. The delicate lines and shades of gray used in this drawing contribute to the overall sense of grace and elegance. The use of classical mythology as a subject matter is a common theme in European art history, and Balen's rendition offers a unique perspective on this enduring story.