Diana and Callisto 1566

Editor: This is "Diana and Callisto" by Cornelis Cort. It's an engraving, so black and white, and it depicts this dramatic scene of women bathing. It feels so tense! What's your interpretation? Curator: It's intense, isn't it? Cort captures a pivotal moment. Diana, goddess of the hunt, discovers Callisto's pregnancy, a violation of her vow of chastity. Think of the communal aspect of bathing, then the sudden exposure. Editor: So, the other women are essentially outing her? Curator: Exactly! Consider the power dynamics, the judgment... it echoes even today. What do you make of Diana's gesture? Editor: Accusatory. But I also see a loss of innocence, for everyone involved. Curator: I agree. It's a powerful snapshot of betrayal and the harsh consequences of societal expectations.