The Judgement of Paris

Image credit: The National Gallery, London

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Eris, goddess of discord, was the only immortal not invited to an important wedding. Furious at being left out, she threw a golden apple inscribed ‘To the Fairest’ among all the goddesses at the feast. Three claimed the title – Minerva, Juno and Venus. Jupiter, chief of the gods, declared that Paris should be the judge. The young man had been raised as a shepherd, but was actually a prince of Troy. It is this moment of choice that Rubens has depicted: Paris hands the golden apple to Venus, goddess of beauty, in the centre. The goddesses had all cheated. Juno offered Paris wealth and power, Minerva offered wisdom and strength. Venus promised him the most beautiful woman in the world, Helen of Sparta – an irresistible gift. In the clouds above their heads is the implacable Fury, Alecto.

The National Gallery, London

London

Title

The Judgement of Paris

Date

probably 1632-5

Medium

Oil on oak

Measurements

H 144.8 x W 193.7 cm

Accession number

NG194

Acquisition method

Bought, 1844

Work type

Painting

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