Pyramus en Thisbe 1585 - 1589

Hendrick Goltzius created this engraving, "Pyramus en Thisbe," which now resides in the Rijksmuseum. The eye is immediately drawn to the dynamic and somewhat unsettling composition, dominated by the dramatically posed figure of Pyramus, bisected by his own sword. His body, both idealized and brutally pierced, creates a striking contrast. Goltzius masterfully uses line and form to convey emotional intensity. Notice how the lines create a sense of depth and movement, almost as if the figure is caught in a moment of tragic realization. The billowing drapery surrounding Pyramus accentuates the drama, each fold meticulously rendered to enhance the texture and visual impact. This attention to detail is not merely decorative; it serves to heighten the emotional resonance of the scene. Consider how Goltzius challenges conventional representations of the human form, using exaggeration and distortion to amplify the emotional impact of the narrative. This work invites us to contemplate the complex interplay between form, emotion, and the enduring power of classical mythology.