1918

The Trojan War is one of the most recognisable events in Greek mythology, and has consistently inspired many classical works. The Judgement of Paris is said to be the catalyst of the Trojan War, after Paris of Troy was charged by Zeus to decide who was the fairest out of the goddesses Aphrodite, Athena and Hera. 

This event has been interpreted by many artists, among them Johann Kraemer, whose work The Judgement of Paris was bequeathed to Geelong Gallery in 1918 by the family of the late John Traill. 

Kraemer’s depiction centres on the scene in which Paris offers a golden apple to Aphrodite, while Hera and Athena look on. The primary colours of the figures’ drapery are contrasted with the earthly tones of the landscape, and the addition of winged putti and animals create a magnificent blend of myth and allegory.