Dood van Adonis Possibly 1809

This print by M. Martinet, titled "The Death of Adonis," captures a dramatic scene rooted in classical mythology. It was printed for the Cabinet of M. Gottskowsky, a merchant and banker in Berlin. The story of Adonis, a youth of remarkable beauty, has persisted through time. Born of incest, his life was tragically cut short when he was gored by a wild boar during a hunt. Here, we see Venus in her chariot, arriving too late to save her beloved. The imagery of a goddess powerless against fate evokes themes of love, loss, and the limitations of divine intervention in human affairs. This piece maintains traditional representations while developing an alternative narrative. It invites contemplation on the ephemerality of life and the intersection of beauty and sorrow, prompting an emotional connection with the characters and their tragic circumstances.