Mercurius en Herse 1604 - 1608

Jacob Matham created this engraving, "Mercurius en Herse," which now resides in the Rijksmuseum. Matham, working in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, lived during a period of significant religious and political upheaval in the Netherlands. Here we see a classical story, likely intended for an educated, elite audience familiar with classical mythology. Matham uses the story of Mercurius and Herse to explore themes of love, desire, and power. The presence of classical ruins situates this narrative within a broader historical and cultural context, reminding us of the enduring legacy of antiquity in European art and thought. Consider the way gender roles and social hierarchies play out in this scene. How might Matham be commenting on the dynamics of power and sexuality within his own society through this classical allegory? It’s as if he’s saying, “Look closely, and you might see a reflection of ourselves in these ancient tales.”