Dido Reine de Cartage/ une Muse 17th century

This is an anonymous drawing, made with pen, ink, and wash, depicting two figures, “Dido, Queen of Carthage” and a muse. It’s interesting to consider these figures together. Dido, from antiquity, was a powerful woman who founded Carthage. She is often remembered for her tragic love affair with Aeneas. By placing her next to a muse, the artist elevates Dido to the status of an artistic inspiration. Look at how each figure is draped in classical robes, yet Dido holds a sword, symbolizing her power and agency. The drawing prompts us to reflect on the roles and representations of women in history and art. Is Dido celebrated for her strength, or is she being reduced to a tragic figure, a muse, defined by her relationships with men? This artwork offers a space to consider these complex questions.