Perseus op Pegasus met het hoofd van Medusa 1622

Gerard ter Borch created this drawing, "Perseus on Pegasus with the Head of Medusa," using pen and brown ink in the 17th century. During this time, mythological themes were popular, often reflecting societal values and power dynamics. Here, Borch engages with the classic tale of Perseus, a hero celebrated for his courage, riding Pegasus. This portrayal invites us to reflect on the symbolic weight of Perseus's act, particularly in relation to Medusa. Medusa, often seen as a monster, can also be interpreted as a figure of female rage and victim of patriarchal violence, cursed for an assault she did not instigate. The drawing doesn’t explicitly challenge traditional narratives, but by depicting this dramatic moment, Borch opens a space for considering the complexities of power, justice, and the silencing of female voices. Ultimately, this drawing serves as a reminder of the stories we tell and the values they reflect, inviting us to reconsider the perspectives often left in the shadows.