The Judgment of Paris c. 1731

Jacob de Wit created this drawing of The Judgement of Paris in red chalk. The composition, with its swirling clouds and figures, immediately evokes a sense of Baroque dynamism. De Wit masterfully uses the red chalk to create a luminous and airy scene, enhancing the ethereal quality of the mythological subject. Consider the placement of the figures within the cloudscape. De Wit organizes the scene into a triangular structure, with Paris seemingly presiding at the apex. The dynamism is enhanced by the figures gesturing, creating a visual flow that guides the viewer's eye across the scene. The carefully constructed composition invites us to consider how the artist is engaging with the classical tradition while also innovating within it. Note how the use of red chalk not only defines form but also creates a unifying tone throughout the composition. This monochromatic approach underscores the drawing's formal qualities, highlighting the artist's technical skill. It also functions as a cultural signifier, aligning with the conventions of academic drawing. The artist uses form to create a compelling narrative, inviting us to reflect on the enduring power of classical mythology.