Val van Icarus 1560 - 1600

This is "Fall of Icarus", an engraving made around 1585 by Johann Sadeler I, now housed in the Rijksmuseum. Here, a vast landscape overwhelms the small figure of Icarus plummeting from the sky, which evokes a sense of detachment and indifference. The composition, with its meticulous detail and panoramic view, invites you to explore the intricate textures of the land and sea. The lines are precise, creating a sense of depth and distance. Yet, the real subject is the human condition. Icarus's fall, barely noticed amidst the daily routines of fishermen and farmers, highlights the insignificance of individual tragedy within the grand scheme of the world. This contrast between the epic myth and the mundane activities challenges traditional notions of heroism and fate, inviting us to question our values and the broader cultural codes that define success and failure. Consider how this formal arrangement invites ongoing interpretation, prompting viewers to reconsider the relationship between art, life, and the stories we tell ourselves.