Penelope wenend met de boog van Odysseus in haar hand

About this artwork

verzamelaarsmerk, verso, gestempeld: Lugt 2228

Art Historical Context

This etching by Jean-Marie Delattre, created in 1779, captures a poignant moment from Homer’s Odyssey. The title, “Penelope weeping with the bow of Odysseus in her hand,” depicts the faithful wife of the absent hero holding his great bow—an object that will later prove his identity upon his return. Delattre renders Penelope in a moment of quiet grief, her sorrow contrasting with the weapon’s promise of reunion and justice. As an etching, the work showcases the medium’s capacity for fine, expressive lines that convey both emotional depth and intricate detail. Measuring 372 by 285 millimeters, the print would have circulated among collectors interested in classical narratives, which enjoyed renewed popularity in the late eighteenth century. The presence of the Lugt 2228 collector’s mark on the verso further indicates its passage through distinguished hands, underscoring the enduring appeal of mythological subjects in European print culture. Delattre’s choice of subject reflects the period’s fascination with themes of loyalty, patience, and heroic return, inviting viewers to reflect on Penelope’s steadfast character. The restrained yet evocative composition encourages contemplation of both personal emotion and timeless storytelling.