Achilles and the daughters of Lycomedes 1615 - 1631

Nicolaes Ryckmans created this print, "Achilles and the daughters of Lycomedes," where we see a pivotal moment rendered through potent symbols. Achilles, disguised as a woman, reveals himself by grasping a sword amidst a group of maidens. The sword is a powerful emblem of masculine identity and martial prowess, contrasting sharply with the feminine attire he dons. The contrast between Achilles’ disguise and his true nature is reminiscent of the ancient motif of the "potent female," where figures like the Amazons blurred gender lines to wield power. Think of Judith holding the head of Holofernes, her femininity intertwined with warrior strength. This cross-dressing can also be seen in the carnivalesque inversions of societal norms during festivals, a temporary release of social tensions through disguise and role reversal. Note how this tension affects us, the viewers, too. This dynamic engages our subconscious, inviting us to explore the fluid boundaries of identity, questioning the seemingly fixed categories of gender and destiny. It also invites us to meditate on the cyclical nature of symbols, how they resurface, evolve, and are re-interpreted across time.