Triomfwagen van Diana c. 1640 - 1695

This is Eloy Bonnejonne’s etching, “Triumph of Diana”. Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt, moon, and nature, is depicted here in command of powerful, mythical beasts. The image is shaped by the cultural norms of its time, reflecting a patriarchal view where even goddesses were portrayed through a male gaze. What does it mean to see a female deity, often associated with wildness and freedom, rendered as an object of serene authority and beauty? The visual language of the piece, with its detailed lines and classical imagery, evokes a sense of ancient power. Consider the emotional complexity: the goddess exudes a calm control, yet the presence of the wild creatures suggests untamed forces. This contrast invites us to reflect on the multifaceted nature of femininity and power, and the ways in which both are visually expressed. This image invites a dialogue between the historical representations of women and the ongoing re-negotiations of identity and agency in contemporary society.