Offer van Polyxena of Iphigenia 1667

Gerard de Lairesse made this print, “Offer van Polyxena of Iphigenia,” depicting a scene of human sacrifice, though it is now unknown when it was produced. The image makes meaning through the cultural references and historical associations of its subject. As you can see, Lairesse sets this in classical times, and the subject is extracted from Greek Mythology. Lairesse was Dutch, but he worked in a classical style and was deeply influenced by French art, so, as such, this print could be considered neoclassical. Its formalism and subject are intended to ennoble and edify the viewer with its themes of patriotism, duty, and sacrifice. To fully understand this artwork, we need to consider the social conditions that influenced Lairesse and the institutional histories that shaped his style. By consulting historical records, art criticism, and biographical information, we can better understand the complex interplay between art, society, and institutions.