Pyramus en Thisbe 1768

Pierre Charles Canot created this print, "Pyramus and Thisbe," sometime in the 18th century, an era of grand narratives and heightened emotion. Canot’s print presents a scene of tragedy and misunderstanding; a visualization of a story taken from Ovid’s Metamorphoses. Pyramus and Thisbe, star-crossed lovers forbidden to marry, plan to meet in secret but misunderstandings and miscommunications lead to their demise. The tale speaks to the dangers of forbidden love, a theme resonant in a society bound by strict social codes. The print underscores the dramatic intensity of the narrative, tapping into the emotional sensibilities of the time. As in much art of this period, the figures, frozen in their grief and despair, take center stage. Their dramatic poses and the stark contrast between light and shadow invite us to contemplate not just the narrative, but also the emotional weight of the scene. Ultimately, "Pyramus and Thisbe" reflects the societal fascination with love, loss, and the tragic consequences of miscommunication, inviting a dialogue between the artwork and the personal histories of those who engage with it.