Book 4, Fable 7: Pandora 1719

Nicolas Henry Tardieu created this print called 'Book 4, Fable 7: Pandora' sometime before his death in 1749. It illustrates a story deeply embedded in Western culture, one used to explain the origin of suffering. Here, Pandora stands amidst classical architecture, her face tilted upwards, gazing at the evils escaping from her box. Traditionally, Pandora is portrayed as the first woman, whose curiosity unleashed suffering upon the world. This rendering of Pandora occurs in the artistic and intellectual climate of the Enlightenment. But in a time increasingly driven by rationalism, this artwork reproduces an ancient myth that places the blame for earthly troubles on a woman. Notice the chaotic cloud of figures, in contrast to Pandora’s poised stance. Is she a naive victim or a symbol of female agency gone awry? What does it mean to continue telling this story? The image lingers in the space between ancient myth and the evolving roles and representations of women.