Phyllis in een architecturale tuin 1787

Pierre Adrien Le Beau created this print called "Phyllis in an Architectural Garden." The print invokes the story of Phyllis from Greek mythology. Heartbroken that her lover Theseus had not returned, she died and was transformed into a tree. The inscription on the print reads: ‘Phyllis is ever cruel as the first day of May.’ This refers to the blossoming of trees and the associated feelings of life and love. Here, the artist is portraying a figure from classical myth within an elaborately designed garden. This garden is manicured; the plants are contained within pots or carefully climbing trellises, symbolizing an attempt to control nature itself. The masculine figure of the statue looking down at Phyllis is a reminder of the male gaze which continues to fix women within specific roles or narratives. The image is a reminder of the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring power of transformation. The print captures a moment of emotional tension.