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Cydippe with the Apple of Acontius by Paulus Bor

Paulus Bor · 1650-01-01

Paulus Bor's "Cydippe with the Apple of Acontius" (c. 1650) is an oil painting housed at the Rijksmuseum. This work draws on classical myth but uses symbolic objects to create a deeper narrative.

Observe Cydippe's introspective gaze and the apple she holds, a symbol often representing temptation or knowledge. Notice the contrasting textures of her white garment, blue shawl, and the metallic urn. Pay close attention to the floral garlands and the prominent skull.

Bor, a Dutch Golden Age artist and member of the Bentvueghels, painted this in a style echoing Italian Baroque with its dramatic chiaroscuro. The painting's symbolism, particularly the skull and apple, invites contemplation on life, death, and choice.

What story do these combined symbols tell about Cydippe's contemplation?

Details

Her gaze is downcast, her posture introspective.
Her gaze is downcast, her posture introspective.
Look at the floral garlands and the ornate urn.
Look at the floral garlands and the ornate urn.
Here is a skull, a symbol of death.
Here is a skull, a symbol of death.
The rich, deep blue of the shawl contrasts with her skin and white garment, adding depth and visual interest.
The rich, deep blue of the shawl contrasts with her skin and white garment, adding depth and visual interest.
Transcript

She holds an apple. Is it temptation or knowledge? Her gaze is downcast, her posture introspective. The artist's technique creates strong light and shadow. Look at the floral garlands and the ornate urn. This art society member worked in Rome. Here is a skull, a symbol of death. The painter was Paulus Bor, around 1650.