Sarcophagus Panel with the Myth of Endymion and Selene

Summary

This artwork masterfully dissects its narrative into cartoon-like segments, beginning with a shepherd and his dog on a rocky outcropping. The central focus showcases Selene, the goddess, emerging from a chariot while her love, Endymion, sleeps under Hypnos's spell. Despite his enchanted slumber, the couple shares a vibrant life, highlighted by their fifty children. The piece transitions from themes of death to a more hopeful perspective, emphasizing the joys and promises that follow darker times, inviting viewers to reflect on the deeper stories conveyed through art.

Takeaways

• 🖼️ The artwork breaks the narrative into three distinct sections, resembling cartoon-like boxes.
• 🐑 The left section features a shepherd tending to his flock, establishing the setting of the piece.
• 🚗 The central portion depicts the goddess Cellini exiting a chariot, highlighting her role in the narrative.
• 👶 A small child in the central scene appears bored, contrasting the drama unfolding around her.
• 💤 Endymion, the sleeping youth, symbolizes love that transcends wakefulness, as he is visited by Cellini.
• 🌌 Hypnos, the god of sleep, plays a crucial role by putting Endymion into slumber for Cellini's visits.
• 👩‍❤️‍👨 The relationship between Cellini and Endymion emphasizes themes of love and longing.
• 🎭 The right section shows Cellini returning to her chariot, indicating a narrative resolution.
• 🌅 The artwork shifts from themes of death to a more hopeful and promising outlook.
• 👶💞 Despite Endymion's slumber, he and Cellini have managed to have 50 children, symbolizing enduring love.

Q & A

What is the overall theme of the artwork discussed in the transcript?

The artwork breaks up a narrative into three cartoon-like boxes, depicting a story that involves themes of love and mythology.

Who is the central figure on the far left of the artwork?

The central figure is a shepherd tending his flock, accompanied by a dog, situated on a rocky outcropping.

What notable event is depicted in the central portion of the artwork?

The central portion shows two horses pulling a chariot, with a woman stepping out towards her right and a bored child behind her.

Who is the woman depicted in the artwork, and how is she identified?

The woman is the goddess Selene, identified by the shawl she carries over her shoulder.

What is the significance of the child in the scene?

The child, who appears extremely bored, represents a contrast to the dynamic scene unfolding, highlighting the mundane amidst the divine.

Who is Endymion, and what is his state in the artwork?

Endymion is the shepherd depicted as being asleep, his eyes closed, due to being put to sleep by the god Hypnos.

What relationship exists between Selene and Endymion?

Selene visits Endymion every night while he sleeps, indicating a romantic relationship despite the enchanted slumber.

How many children did Selene and Endymion have, and what does this suggest?

They reportedly had 50 children, suggesting a fruitful and significant relationship despite the challenges posed by Endymion's sleep.

What happens to Selene at the end of the depicted scene?

Selene hops back into her chariot after a night with Endymion and rides off, hinting at themes of continuity and hope.

How does the artwork shift the tone regarding themes of death?

The piece offers a more hopeful perspective on death compared to previous treatments, indicating a promise of love and connection beyond mortality.