Venus of Arles 18th-19th century

Curator: Here we have Johann Friedrich Wilhelm Müller's "Venus of Arles." Müller, born in 1782, rendered this engraving with incredible precision. Editor: She's so poised, almost cool. The drapery is lovely, but it's her gesture, holding the apple, that really catches my eye. There's something so self-possessed about her gaze, like she's already made up her mind. Curator: Right, the apple is a crucial symbol, linking her to the Judgement of Paris and the prize of beauty. It's fascinating how Müller captures that moment of decision, the weight of choice almost palpable. Editor: Exactly! And isn't it funny how she isn’t trying to entice anyone? She's just standing there, a goddess in her own right, radiating inner confidence and power. What a wonderful re-imagining of the myth! Curator: Indeed! The piece feels so personal, almost as if Müller is sharing his own nuanced view of beauty and agency. Editor: A timeless piece, and a great reflection on the meaning of beauty.