Perseus en Andromeda 1670 - 1697

This engraving, "Perseus and Andromeda," was created by Paul van Somer II around the turn of the 18th century. Here, Andromeda, a symbol of purity, stands chained—a vulnerable offering. Yet, hovering, we see Perseus astride Pegasus, about to strike the monstrous sea creature, a visual motif representing chaos and the untamed depths of the subconscious. Consider the image of the dragon or sea monster, a symbol stretching back to ancient Mesopotamia with Tiamat. Here, it embodies raw, untamed power. Compare this to later depictions, like Fafnir in Norse mythology, guarding its hoard. The monster evolves, reflecting our shifting fears and societal values. It’s a testament to how symbols, rooted in primal anxieties, resurface, transformed by cultural currents. Observe the conflicting emotions evoked by the image: terror of the beast, sympathy for Andromeda, admiration for Perseus. It reflects a deep, collective memory of struggle. Ultimately, the image is a cyclical narrative of fear and triumph, its potency undiminished through time.