Defeat of Porus 17th-18th century

Editor: Here we have Bernard Picart’s “Defeat of Porus”. It's a chaotic scene, full of movement and struggle, but also kind of… theatrical? What do you make of this dramatic clash? Curator: Theatrical, yes! Picart, bless his heart, was illustrating history, but through the lens of Baroque drama. Notice how the figures are posed, almost like actors on a stage. It's less about historical accuracy, more about conveying the grand sweep of conquest, wouldn't you say? Editor: Absolutely. So, it’s less about what *actually* happened and more about the idea of victory and defeat? Curator: Precisely! It’s the *idea* of a battle, stylized and amplified. Think of it as historical fan fiction! I find it quite compelling, don’t you? Editor: It does make you wonder about the stories we tell ourselves about history. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. Always a pleasure to unpack these narratives with fresh eyes!