Diana en Actaeon 1565 - 1611

Paulus van Wtewael's "Diana en Actaeon" (1565-1611) is a circular engraving depicting the Greek myth of Actaeon, who was transformed into a stag after witnessing the goddess Diana bathing. The artwork is a powerful representation of the consequences of hubris, as Actaeon's curiosity leads to his gruesome fate. The inscription surrounding the image adds further context to the scene, detailing Actaeon's demise at the hands of his own hounds. The engraving captures the drama of the myth in its dynamic composition and detailed rendering, showcasing van Wtewael's mastery of the medium. This artwork offers a compelling visual commentary on the dangers of transgression against the divine.