Pyramus en Thisbe c. 1636 - 1670

Editor: Here we have "Pyramus and Thisbe," an engraving by Magdalena van de Passe, dating from around 1636 to 1670. It depicts a tragic scene with striking detail; the emotion feels quite raw. What stands out to you in this work? Curator: The recurring image of the lion is especially captivating, carrying immense cultural baggage. In ancient mythology, lions often embodied untamed passion, strength, and also primal danger. Its presence here, coupled with the bloodied veil, becomes a potent symbol for the lovers’ impetuous desires and the brutal consequences that followed. Consider how often we see similar symbolic juxtapositions in art history. Why do you think these symbols resonate so deeply with us, even today? Editor: Is it because they tap into some shared unconscious understanding of these concepts across time? Curator: Precisely. It is as if certain images become hardwired into our collective cultural memory. Think of the image of the fountain. Is it merely decorative here, or does it amplify the theme of grief and catharsis? Editor: Well, the fountain has putti carved on it, which seems a bit ironic considering the lovers' tragic fate, right? Curator: Yes, the presence of Cupid is notable. Doesn't the iconography contrast vividly with the grim scene unfolding before it? It is as if Van de Passe wants us to question the perceived harmony and justice of love. We still read and connect to those symbols of loss centuries later. What new appreciation do you have for the print after further examination? Editor: I see the lion not just as a scary beast, but as a metaphor for dangerous passions and a dark premonition of the tragedy. It adds a richer layer of meaning to the whole scene.