Artwork
The Dream of Paris
The Dream of Paris is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Peter Gertner. It dates from 1536 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
- Accession no.
- 58702
About this work
Overview
The Dream of Paris is an oil on panel painting depicting a scene from classical mythology. The work shows the Trojan prince Paris asleep, surrounded by goddesses, with a narrative that blends medieval allegory and ancient themes.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates the Judgment of Paris, where Paris chooses Venus over Minerva and Juno. Venus is shown with a heart and golden apple, accompanied by Cupid. The scene is set in a dream vision, indicated by Paris's sleeping pose and an inscription on a tree.
Technique & Style
The artist employed glazing techniques to achieve the painting's detailed effects. The use of contemporary knight's garb for Paris, rather than classical dress, creates a sense of relatability and contrasts with the nudity of the goddesses, emphasizing the timelessness of Paris's moral dilemma.
Context
The painting draws on medieval allegorical traditions, using the dream vision device to foreshadow future events, including the departure of Paris and Helen, which sparked the Trojan War.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Family Portrait of Ludwig II
Portrait of Louis X of Bavaria
Portrait of Count Palatine Philip, Bishop of Freising
Portrait of Elector Ludwig V von der Pfalz, the Peacefull
Beatrix Markgräfin von Baden, Gemahlin des Pfalzgrafen Johann II. von Sponheim
Pfalzgraf Johann II. von Simmern-Sponheim
Georg, Bischof von Speyer (wohl Pfalzgraf Philipp, Bischof zu Freising) (Kopie nach)
Kurfürst Friedrich I. der Siegreiche
