Theseus Recovering the Armor of Aegeus c. 1780

François Valentin's "Theseus Recovering the Armor of Aegeus," a red chalk drawing created around 1780, depicts a scene from Greek mythology. The drawing shows the hero Theseus retrieving his father's armor, a symbolic act of reclaiming his lineage. Valentin, known for his masterful draftsmanship, uses a warm, earthy palette to create a sense of depth and atmosphere. The figure of Theseus is prominently placed, drawing the viewer's eye toward the central action. This drawing, currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, offers a glimpse into Valentin's interpretation of classical mythology, showcasing his talent for capturing human form and narrative through line and tone.