Cinyras valt zijn dochter Myrrha aan c. 1636 - 1670

Crispijn van de Passe II created this engraving, "Cinyras valt zijn dochter Myrrha aan," its intricate lines and contrasting shades of gray immediately draw us into a scene of intense conflict. The composition is stark. The figures of Cinyras and Myrrha dominate the foreground, their struggle unfolding with dramatic tension. Van de Passe employs line to define form and texture, etching the scene with a precision that captures the emotional weight of the narrative. Notice how the sharp, angular lines of Cinyras's cloak and sword contrast with the softer, more flowing lines of Myrrha's drapery. This contrast underscores the power dynamics at play. The use of light and shadow enhances the drama, casting dark shadows that amplify the sense of danger and despair. The background is rendered with meticulous detail, creating a sense of depth and space. The work destabilizes moral categories, prompting us to question the boundaries of human behavior. It is through this formal interplay that Van de Passe invites us to reflect on the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of myth.