Losse fragmenten van een prent van Pyramus en Thisbe 1580 - 1596

These are the loose fragments of a print of Pyramus and Thisbe, made by an anonymous artist. These remnants offer a fragmented glimpse into the enduring power of classical narratives. The story of Pyramus and Thisbe, two ill-fated lovers whose families forbid their union, echoes through various cultural periods. This tragic love story, popularized by Ovid, explores themes of forbidden love, communication, and the often-tragic consequences of societal restrictions. Looking at these fragments one cannot help but question the artist's decision to represent this story. The fragmented nature of the print mirrors the brokenness and incompleteness of the lovers’ lives and their unrealized desires. The artist's choice to depict this narrative may reflect their views on love and society's role in shaping individual destinies. It invites us to consider how classical tales are reinterpreted and how they reflect the social and emotional landscapes of their time. The emotional weight of the story lingers even in these shattered pieces.