The Fall of Phaeton 1540 - 1566

Editor: Here we have Nicolas Beatrizet the Younger's engraving, "The Fall of Phaeton" from the Harvard Art Museums. It's rendered with such dynamic energy; the figures seem to be caught in a moment of complete chaos. What symbols resonate with you in this piece? Curator: The image pulsates with classical themes. Phaeton’s fall, struck down by Zeus, embodies hubris, a warning against overreaching ambition. Note how the sun chariot's horses are thrown into disarray. Do you see how they symbolize untamed forces? Editor: Yes, the horses are definitely a strong image. Is there more to it than just the chaos of the fall? Curator: Consider the cultural memory embedded in the eagle, Zeus's emblem. This act of divine intervention reminds us of the fragile balance between humans and the divine, a theme echoed through centuries. It's a potent symbol of limitation. Editor: It's amazing how much meaning is packed into one image! I’ll definitely look at classical art differently now. Curator: Indeed, symbols allow echoes of ancient wisdom to inform our present.