The River Eunoë 1807

Curator: Let's delve into John Flaxman's "The River Eunoë," currently housed in the Tate Collections. Flaxman, born in 1755, created this image measuring 132 by 190 mm. Editor: It feels ethereal, almost like a dream sequence. The figures are so lightly drawn, giving them a ghostly quality. Curator: Absolutely. Flaxman was deeply engaged with classical literature and mythology, as well as the concept of divine justice. This piece specifically illustrates a scene from Dante's Purgatorio. Editor: You can feel the weight of that context, though the simplicity of the lines belies its complexity. The river itself must be symbolic, this…cleansing. Curator: Eunoë is the river of good memory, meant to erase the lingering effects of sin. Notice how Flaxman emphasizes the figures’ interconnectedness, the almost ritualistic positioning. Editor: It's as if they are bound to each other, both victims and guides. It makes me think about how memories shape us, both good and bad. Curator: Indeed. Flaxman encourages us to confront the societal constructs that influence our own moral frameworks and consider the possibility of redemption. Editor: Flaxman’s illustration offers a window into a world where even painful histories can be reshaped. It's a powerful, quiet statement about healing. Curator: It's a testament to how art can hold space for difficult conversations, prompting a deeper understanding of both ourselves and the world around us.