Sarcophagus Panel with the Myth of Endymion and Selene

The Getty
1 Oct 201402:10

Summary

TLDRThis 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

  • đŸ–Œïž 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.
  • đŸ‘¶ A small child in the central scene appears bored, contrasting the drama unfolding around her.
  • đŸ’€ 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.
  • đŸ‘©â€â€ïžâ€đŸ‘š 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.
  • đŸ‘¶đŸ’ž 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.

Outlines

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Mindmap

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Keywords

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Highlights

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Transcripts

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Étiquettes Connexes
Art AnalysisMythologyLove StorySeleneEndymionHopeNarrative StructureSculptureDivine ConnectionEmotional Themes
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