Illustratie voor 'Alle de werken' van Lucianus 1679

This illustration by Romeyn de Hooghe, now at the Rijksmuseum, captures a powerful scene with deep roots in classical mythology. Here we see Prometheus bound to a rock, an eagle devouring his liver, and figures enacting a divine punishment. The image draws directly from ancient Greek narratives, where Prometheus, a Titan, defied the gods by giving fire to humanity. Zeus, king of the gods, is represented in the top right corner. He condemned Prometheus to eternal torment. This act of defiance and subsequent suffering makes Prometheus a symbol of resistance against oppressive authority. We can trace the theme of sacrifice across time and cultures, from religious iconography to modern political metaphors. The enduring appeal of Prometheus lies in his embodiment of human striving and the consequences of challenging the established order. His suffering resonates with the collective human experience, evoking feelings of empathy and awe, and reminding us of the timeless struggle between power and individual will. The image of Prometheus continues to resurface and evolve, each time carrying the weight of its symbolic past.