The Judgment of Paris 1602

Joachim Wtewael’s oil on canvas, The Judgment of Paris, is rich with classical symbols, most notably the golden apple, which becomes a fulcrum for the drama. This seemingly simple object carries immense weight, symbolizing discord and beauty, and it is destined for the fairest goddess. Paris, caught in the center, must make his choice. The apple's significance echoes through time, appearing in various forms across cultures, from biblical narratives to fairy tales. The emotional intensity is palpable. The viewer senses Paris's torment, the goddesses' pride and anticipation. Such psychic investments engage us, binding us to the artwork. It is a continuous cycle of expression and re-expression where symbols persist and evolve.