Theseus verlaat Ariadne op Naxos (?) 1677 - 1755

This drawing by Elias van Nijmegen depicts the Greek myth of Theseus and Ariadne. The scene portrays the moment Theseus abandons Ariadne on the island of Naxos. In the drawing, Theseus is seen sailing away in a boat while Ariadne sits on a rock with a sorrowful expression. A winged cherub flies overhead, symbolizing the betrayal and heartbreak of the scene. The drawing is rendered in brown ink and wash and showcases van Nijmegen's talent for capturing the emotional intensity of this classic myth. The use of light and shadow further enhances the dramatic impact of the scene.