Het oordeel van Paris 1669 - 1748

This is Giovanni Girolamo Frezza’s engraving of ‘The Judgement of Paris.’ The composition is arranged with an almost mathematical precision, dividing the scene into distinct planes. A central cluster of figures dominates, flanked by more solitary elements—Paris on the left, and cherubic figures on the right. This structured arrangement creates a balanced yet dynamic visual experience. Frezza’s medium allows for a remarkable exploration of light and shadow. The dense network of lines not only defines the forms of the figures, but also evokes texture and depth, giving the scene a palpable sense of volume. The formal nature of the engraving lends itself to a semiotic reading: each line, each shadow, functions as a sign, contributing to the overall narrative. The formal clarity of Frezza's engraving invites us to consider how it serves as a vehicle for conveying classical ideals and values. It challenges fixed meanings and encourages an ongoing interpretation of the classical stories.