Judgement of Paris

Art Historical Context

The *Judgement of Paris*, a print in the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s graphic arts collection, captures one of the most famous episodes from Greek mythology. Paris, a Trojan prince, must decide which goddess—among Aphrodite, Athena, and Hera—deserves the golden apple. The scene typically shows the goddesses presenting their charms while playful putti and symbols of abundance, such as fruit on a table, underscore the themes of beauty, desire, and fateful choice. Created by the Flemish artist Frans van den Wyngaerde, this work exemplifies the long tradition of reproductive prints that brought classical stories to wider audiences. As a graphic arts print, it allowed intricate compositions to be shared across Europe, preserving and popularizing mythological narratives beyond the reach of paintings or frescoes. The presence of putti and still-life elements adds a light, decorative quality typical of Flemish graphic work. Now part of the museum’s holdings through the generous gift of Mrs. Nigel Cholmeley-Jones, the print invites viewers to reflect on how ancient tales of judgment and consequence continue to resonate through centuries of artistic interpretation.