The Daughters of Cecrops Finding the Child Erichthonius 1617

Jacob Jordaens painted "The Daughters of Cecrops Finding the Child Erichthonius" in Antwerp, a major center of artistic production in the Southern Netherlands. It presents a classical myth, but one recast through the lens of 17th-century Flemish culture. The painting depicts the daughters of Cecrops, the mythical first king of Athens, discovering the infant Erichthonius, who was hidden in a chest. Erichthonius was believed to be the son of the god Hephaestus and the Earth goddess Gaia, and the myth explores themes of divine intervention and the dangers of forbidden knowledge. Jordaens presents these themes through lush, sensual figures, reflecting the artistic and cultural values of his time. The inclusion of certain animals invites social critique. The inclusion of a turkey, recently imported from the Americas, speaks to Antwerp’s growing role in global trade networks. The artist may be commenting on how the pursuit of earthly riches can distract us from the more serious aspects of life. To fully understand the painting, scholars consult period literature, examine the artist's biography, and study Antwerp's economic and social history. Only through this can we truly grasp the artwork's role in its time.