Procris and the Unicorn c. 1520 - 1522

Bernardino Luini, an artist who lived from about 1480 to 1532, painted "Procris and the Unicorn." The painting invites reflection on the historical construction of gender and power, particularly through its depiction of a woman and a mythical creature. The unicorn, often a symbol of purity and grace, is here positioned in a submissive posture before Procris, a figure drawn from Greek mythology. This representation challenges traditional narratives of male dominance, subtly questioning the established social hierarchies of Luini's time. We might read the emotional undercurrent of the piece as a visual commentary on control, desire, and perhaps even the taming of wild, untamed aspects of the self. It encourages us to think about the complex interplay of control and vulnerability. The artwork prompts reflection on the shifting boundaries of gender and identity. It encapsulates the delicate balance of power and the yearning for understanding and harmony.