Judgment of the Paris
1530
Imagine the ultimate reality TV beauty pageant, but set in a German forest with knights instead of shepherds. Lucas Cranach the Elder painted this 'Judgment of Paris' scene dozens of times, essentially creating the first viral art meme of the Northern Renaissance. The three goddesses stand in a row, looking like slender, pale supermodels of the 16th century, waiting for the verdict from the knight in silver armor. He’s looking up at a mischievous Cupid in the tree, probably taking hints on who to pick as the 'fairest of them all.' It’s a hilarious mix of classical mythology and contemporary fashion, where ancient gods wear the latest German armor.
Views: 1