Achilles met lijk van Hector achter zijn zegewagen 1719

Bernard Picart created this print of Achilles dragging Hector’s body in the late 17th to early 18th century. The scene is depicted with stark lines and a clear composition, drawing our eyes immediately to the foreground, where the lifeless body of Hector lies, contorted unnaturally. Picart masterfully uses the etching technique to create depth and texture. Note how the lines vary in thickness to convey a sense of drama. The contrast is not just aesthetic; it’s a semiotic system. Hector's limp form, the sharp angles of the chariot, and the rigid posture of Achilles all communicate power dynamics. The image isn't merely an illustration of a scene from the Iliad, it's an exploration of the brutal consequences of war and unchecked hubris. The scene challenges conventional heroic narratives, destabilizing any fixed meaning of triumph and glory. The artist invites us to question the values that underpin such violent displays of power.