Diana and Endymion 1600 - 1641

Anthony van Dyck rendered this drawing, *Diana and Endymion*, using pen and brown ink, reflecting the Baroque era's penchant for drama and dynamic movement. Born in Antwerp, Van Dyck's artistic journey through Europe exposed him to diverse cultural influences, which are subtly woven into his interpretation of classical mythology. Here, we see Diana, the moon goddess, leaning over the sleeping shepherd Endymion, their figures intertwined with an almost electric intimacy. Van Dyck navigates the power dynamics inherent in this mythological encounter. Diana, traditionally depicted as chaste and unattainable, is now an active participant in a moment of vulnerability. This shift encourages us to question the established narratives of female agency and desire within the context of 17th-century social norms. The drawing’s emotive power lies in its ability to transform a divine encounter into a very human, relatable moment. This work offers a unique lens through which to consider themes of love, power, and identity, inviting us to reconsider the stories we tell about ourselves and each other.