Picart, Mythology, Temple of Muses, Iphis

Bernard Picart’s *Cérémonies et coutumes religieuses de tous les peuples du monde* contains intricate illustrations of classical myths. The story of **Iphis** is one such narrative, dealing with themes of transformation and gender. Here's an overview of the myth of Iphis and how Picart might have depicted this story within the context of the **Temple of the Muses**:

### **The Myth of Iphis**

- **Background:**
  - **Iphis and Ianthe:** In Greek mythology, Iphis was a child born to Lygdus and Telethusa. Telethusa, fearing that her daughter Iphis would be abandoned because of a prophecy that her child would be a girl, secretly raised Iphis as a boy. 
  - **Love and Transformation:** As Iphis grew up, she fell in love with Ianthe, a fellow girl. The love between Iphis and Ianthe was mutual, and Iphis desired to marry her. Telethusa, moved by the love and seeing no other way to help, prayed to the goddess Isis for a solution. The goddess transformed Iphis into a man, allowing the marriage to proceed.

- **Symbolism:**
  - **Transformation and Identity:** The myth of Iphis explores themes of identity and transformation. It reflects ancient ideas about gender and how divine intervention can change one's destiny.
  - **Divine Favor:** The transformation by Isis illustrates the theme of divine favor and the gods’ ability to alter human lives to fulfill personal desires or correct perceived wrongs.

### **Picart’s Depiction of Iphis**

- **Artistic Representation:**
  - **Temple of the Muses:** Picart’s illustrations often situate mythological stories within a context that reflects their moral or artistic significance. The Temple of the Muses, dedicated to the goddesses of the arts and inspiration, would be an appropriate backdrop for the story of Iphis, emphasizing themes of transformation and divine intervention.
  - **Visual Elements:** Picart might depict the moment of transformation or a scene showcasing Iphis and Ianthe together. The transformation scene would likely include divine imagery, possibly invoking the presence of Isis, who plays a crucial role in the myth.

- **Artistic Style:**
  - **Detail and Accuracy:** Picart’s engravings are known for their detailed and accurate portrayals of mythological subjects. His illustration of Iphis would capture the emotional and transformative aspects of the myth, reflecting the changes in Iphis’s identity and the divine intervention by Isis.
  - **Symbolic Imagery:** The illustration might include symbolic elements such as the transformation process, the figures of Iphis and Ianthe, and possibly divine symbols associated with Isis.

### **Artistic and Historical Context**

- **Influence:** Picart’s work was instrumental in shaping 18th-century interpretations of classical mythology. His detailed illustrations helped contemporary audiences understand and visualize these ancient narratives.
  
- **Educational Value:** The depiction of Iphis within the Temple of the Muses provides valuable insights into how myths involving transformation and identity were visualized during Picart’s time. It offers a detailed visual record of the artistic and symbolic elements associated with these narratives.

### **Summary**

Bernard Picart’s illustration of **Iphis** within the **Temple of the Muses** offers a nuanced portrayal of this mythological narrative. The story of Iphis, with its themes of transformation and divine intervention, is depicted with attention to detail and symbolic imagery. Picart’s work captures the emotional and transformative aspects of the myth, reflecting both its artistic and moral dimensions. Through his engravings, Picart provides a valuable visual representation of classical mythology, contributing to the understanding and appreciation of these enduring stories.