The Judgment of Paris (c. 1615)

"The Judgment of Paris," a captivating drawing by Joachim Wtewael around the year 1615, masterfully encapsulates a pivotal moment from ancient mythology with delicate detail and expressive composition. This artwork illustrates the famous classical story where Paris, a Trojan prince, is tasked with adjudicating the most beautiful among three goddesses: Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite.In Wtewael’s interpretation, the scene is vibrantly alive with human emotion and divine elegance. Paris is depicted seated on the right, holding what appears to be the golden apple of discord which he is about to award. His posture, leaning slightly away, suggests the weight of his decision. Facing him are the three goddesses, each rendered with unique attributes that reflect their individual characters and divine roles.Hera stands with a regal bearing, her dignity unmistakably conveyed through her poised stance. Next, Athena's warrior-like persona is subtly hinted at by her confident, slightly forward-leaning pose. Lastly, Aphrodite, traditionally considered the epitome of beauty, is shown extending her arm towards Paris in a gesture that seems both gentle and persuasive.The figure drawing is remarkable for its fluid lines and the detailed treatment of muscle and form, demonstrating Wtewael’s expertise in human anatomy. A smaller figure, likely Cupid, is shown between Aphrodite and Paris, symbolizing the underlying theme of love that guides the narrative.This drawing not only serves as a splendid example of early 17th-century Dutch art but also provides a visual counterpart to the rich tales of Greek mythology.