Judgment of Paris by Makron Painter
Judgment of Paris
Drawing after an red-figure kylix. Attic
red-figure kylix by Makron (painter) and Hieron (potter), 6th century BCE.
Collection of Classical Antiquities of the National Museums, F 2291. Berlin.
- This drawing reproduces a scene from an Attic red-figure kylix crafted by the potter Hieron and painted by the master Makron (6th–5th century BCE), depicting the iconic myth of the Judgment of Paris. On the far left, Paris (labeled Alexandros) is shown resting peacefully in a pastoral setting among his father's grazing herd, holding a lyre. He is approached by Hermes, clad in his chiton and winged sandals, who acts as the divine guide leading the three major goddesses into Paris's presence. Following Hermes is Athena, recognizable by her helmet, spear, and snake-fringed aegis; behind her stands Hera holding a regal scepter, followed by Aphrodite, who is subtly veiled, accompanied by fluttering Erotes, and holding a dove.
- Beyond its central role in initiating the tragic events of the Trojan War, the image carries profound symbolic and spiritual weight. Visually and allegorically, the contest represents a fundamental trial of the human soul, forced to choose between three supreme aspects of existence: civic authority and power (Hera), wisdom and strategic courage (Athena), and divine desire, beauty, and love (Aphrodite). Spiritually, Paris's choice of Aphrodite reflects the irresistible, transcendent power of Eros over human destiny, illustrating how mortal choices are inextricably bound to divine fate and the cosmic balance governed by the gods.
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