Homer 1665 - 1668

Curator: Girolamo Troppa's "Homer," created sometime between 1665 and 1668, invites us into the shadowy world of the legendary poet. It now resides here at the SMK, Statens Museum for Kunst. Editor: He seems caught mid-sentence! The lighting makes him appear thoughtful, illuminated by the fire of his own words maybe? It's dramatic. I almost hear him reciting those famous lines. Curator: Indeed. In Troppa's era, depicting historical figures wasn’t just about visual accuracy; it was about capturing their essence and legacy, presenting them as exemplars of virtue. Homer, the celebrated poet, was one such figure. Editor: That laurel wreath! So self-important and comical. Does it make me a philistine if it also looks like he is wearing a pizza topping crown? I feel bad for the old fella... Curator: (Laughs) Well, it represents poetic glory, of course. Beyond the theatrics, think about how Troppa navigated the prevailing tastes. There's a demand to represent greatness, combined with expectations on visual and intellectual consumption in that era. Editor: Ah, the burden of the "great man". The light and shadow – Caravaggesque, almost – really throws his wrinkles and age into stark relief. This artist almost forces us to ponder on our mortality... What are we writing? Will we be laurelled with basil, as it may be...or remain in darkness? Curator: It highlights how artistic choices both create and reinforce cultural narratives. "Homer" exemplifies the artistic and intellectual currents of 17th-century Europe and demonstrates that we’re continually reimagining and reinterpreting history. Editor: It's quite touching and very human, actually, isn't it? Seeing the poet this way reminds me we’re all storytellers at heart. I wonder what epics our lives will amount to? Curator: Ultimately, "Homer" prompts questions about memory, history, and how society constructs its heroes, and about the place of the institutions showcasing these heroes today.