The Judgement of Paris
Lucas Cranach the Elder
1527
According to the myth, Prince Paris was asked by Mercury to choose which of the three goddesses, Juno, Minerva or Venus, was the most beautiful. Paris is here seen lying on the left, having just been awakened by Mercury after a dream, and the three goddesses are standing naked before him. Each of them has individually promised him a gift if the choice falls on her. Juno has promised him power and Minerva success as a warrior, while Venus promised him the most beautiful woman on earth. The choice has not yet been made in the picture, but we know from the myth that Paris chose Venus and thus physical love. This had terrible consequences. Among the things resulting from it was the Trojan War.
SMK – National Gallery of Denmark, Copenhagen · Image: SMK – National Gallery of Denmark, Public domain · Text: SMK – National Gallery of Denmark (adapted), CC0