Helen of Troy (by Dante Gabriel Rossetti) Card

This design features a painting by the English artist Dante Gabriel Rossetti (1828–1882), who was the founder of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood artistic movement. It is a powerful and evocative portrayal of one of the most famous figures in Greek mythology. Helen of Troy, often described as the most beautiful woman in the world, was the daughter of Zeus and Leda, and her abduction by Paris led to the Trojan War. Rossetti’s depiction captures her as an embodiment of both beauty and the devastating power that it may possess. In this painting, Helen is presented as a strikingly beautiful woman with an intense and captivating presence. Her expression is enigmatic, a blend of melancholy, pride and a certain aloofness, reflecting her complex role as both a victim and a catalyst of war. Helen’s golden auburn hair, a feature Rossetti often used to symbolise sensuality and allure, cascades down her shoulders in thick waves. Her hair frames her face and contrasts with the pale, luminous quality of her skin, which seems to glow against the dark background. This use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensional quality of her form, giving her an almost sculptural presence. Around her neck, Helen is wearing a necklace with a single pendant, adding a touch of elegance to her already regal appearance. Her hands are clasping the pendant of this necklace, which features an image of a flaming torch. Rossetti’s "Helen of Troy" is not just a celebration of physical beauty but also an exploration of the themes of power, destiny and the often destructive nature of desire. Through his portrayal of Helen, Rossetti captures the duality of her character: she is both an object of desire and a symbol of the inevitable tragedies that such desire can provoke. The painting reflects Rossetti’s fascination with mythological and historical themes, as well as his ability to infuse his works with deep emotional and symbolic resonance. The original artwork was painted by Dante Gabriel Rossetti in 1863.