Venus wounded by Diomedes (Homer’s Iliad V)

DESCRIPTION: This engraving illustrates a dramatic scene from Book V of Homer's Iliad. It depicts the Greek hero Diomedes attacking the goddess Aphrodite (Venus) during the Trojan War. Key Elements of the Image: the mortal hero Diomedes (foreground left), emboldened by the goddess Athena, is shown thrusting his spear upward toward the divine Aphrodite (center right): The goddess of love is seen recoiling in pain. She had entered the battlefield to rescue her son, Aeneas, but was wounded in the hand by Diomedes' spear. Iris (supporting Aphrodite) is the messenger of the gods, who helps the wounded goddess depart from the battlefield to return to Mount Olympus. The injured Aeneas (bottom) lies beneath the feet of Diomedes. Historical Context: This specific scene is a rare moment in Greek mythology where a mortal successfully wounds a deity. The engraving captures the Neoclassical style, emphasizing dynamic movement and the contrast between the earthly struggle of the soldiers and the ethereal presence of the gods. STYLE: Engraving COLOUR: Monochrome SIZE (cm): 10 x 15 CREATORS: PUBLICATION: PUBLISHER: DATE: C18 COMMENTS: Excellent condition SUBJECT: Classics & Literature PACKAGE: Single one-sided sheet in acid-free mount, flat & unfolded inside hard-backed envelope. Royal Mail Tracked 24 included. Note: Images are provided for illustration purposes only and are intended to show the complete printed product, including any imperfections of age that may be present. Frames or props shown in the images are for display purposes only and are not included with your purchase.