De zondvloed van Deucalion 1730 - 1731

Bernard Picart created this print of The Flood of Deucalion in the Netherlands in the early 18th century, using etching. Picart's image depicts the Greek myth of a great flood that wipes out humanity, and is influenced by similar flood stories in the Judeo-Christian tradition. The scene is framed by elaborate ornamentation, contrasting with the chaotic scene within. We see figures struggling against rising waters, while above them, gods and cherubs observe the destruction. Picart uses visual codes to convey the drama and scale of the event, drawing on cultural references to classical mythology and religious narratives. Understanding Picart's work involves researching the intellectual and artistic climate of the Dutch Republic, exploring the role of printmaking in disseminating knowledge, and tracing the history of the Deluge narrative in Western art. By studying these contexts, we can better understand the social conditions that shaped Picart's artistic production.