Perseus
1865
François-Nicolas Chifflart captures the grim triumph of Perseus in this dramatic 1865 illustration, showing the hero standing atop the lifeless body of Medusa. With her snake-haired head dangling from his grip and blood pooling below, the scene is pure Romantic intensity—muscular, moody, and mythic. Chifflart, known for illustrating literary giants like Victor Hugo, brings a theatrical flair to the Greek legend, making the ancient monster slayer look like a brooding rock star of the 19th century. The winged helmet and flowing cape add a sense of motion, freezing the moment right after the ultimate decapitation.
- Technique
- etching
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