Ceres en Stellio 1657 - 1707

Hendrik Bary created this etching, Ceres en Stellio, in the late 17th century. The somber monochrome immediately draws you into a scene cast in deep shadows, punctuated by stark light. The composition centers on a blindfolded Ceres, her figure rendered with careful attention to the play of light and shadow, creating a powerful sense of depth. The work's structure complicates a straightforward narrative. Bary uses the visual language of classical mythology to explore themes of mockery and vulnerability. We see Ceres, typically a figure of maternal strength, caught in a moment of blindness, both literally and figuratively. The old woman’s mockery and Stellio's touch destabilize traditional interpretations of Ceres as a figure of power. The etching technique itself contributes to the meaning. The fine, precise lines create a sense of tension and unease, reflecting the psychological complexity of the scene. Ultimately, this print challenges our understanding of classical iconography and probes deeper into themes of perception, power, and deception.