Schild van Achilles 1706 - 1768

Editor: This engraving, titled "Shield of Achilles," by François Morellon La Cave, probably dating from the first half of the 18th century, shows an incredibly detailed circular composition depicting scenes from Homer’s *Iliad*. It reminds me a bit of a celestial map. What’s your take on this piece? Curator: You know, "celestial map" is insightful! It's tempting to see this not just as a narrative unfolded, but a kind of cosmos. The concentric rings almost breathe. Consider that the engraver is translating Homer's words into visual form, filtered, no doubt, through centuries of artistic tradition and La Cave’s own interpretation. Editor: I’m curious about those interpretations. What choices do you think La Cave is making in his design? Curator: Ah, that’s the beautiful enigma, isn't it? Take how movement flows across the shield. Notice the moments of peace, like harvests and dances, juxtaposed against scenes of war. La Cave isn't just illustrating; he's choreographing an emotional landscape. Editor: So, beyond just illustrating the epic, he’s constructing his own argument about war and peace, order and chaos? Curator: Exactly! And the choice of engraving itself – with its precise lines, and monochrome palette – lends a classical gravitas to the scene, elevating it to something eternal. What do you feel the absence of color contributes? Editor: It makes it seem more like a philosophical diagram than a romantic scene. Very thought provoking! Curator: Indeed, and for me, that’s where the lasting impact of art resides. It offers not just something to *look* at, but a springboard for contemplation. A prompt to keep on asking the questions.