Apollo en Daphne 1701

Jan Claudius de Cock created this delicate pen drawing, Apollo en Daphne, in the late 17th or early 18th century, amidst a period where classical mythology served as a canvas for exploring themes of power, desire, and transformation. The drawing captures the pivotal moment when Daphne, fleeing from Apollo’s unwanted advances, is transformed into a laurel tree. De Cock's choice to depict this scene invites us to reflect on the agency of women in a patriarchal society, and the extreme measures sometimes taken to escape male dominance. The subtle lines and muted tones evoke a sense of vulnerability, emphasizing the emotional turmoil and physical desperation of Daphne's flight. By engaging with the myth of Apollo and Daphne, De Cock's drawing serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles for autonomy and self-determination that continue to resonate across centuries. It prompts us to consider the power dynamics inherent in acts of pursuit and transformation, and to reflect on the enduring quest for freedom and self-preservation.