Picart, Mythology, Temple of Muses, Tithonus & Aurora's

Bernard Picart’s *Cérémonies et coutumes religieuses de tous les peuples du monde* features detailed illustrations of classical myths, including the story of **Tithonus and Aurora** (Eos in Greek mythology). This mythological tale explores themes of immortality, eternal love, and the passage of time. Here’s an overview of the story and how Picart might have depicted it:

### **Tithonus and Aurora in Mythology**

- **Background:**
  - **Aurora (Eos):** Aurora is the Roman goddess of the dawn, known for her role in bringing the light of day. In Greek mythology, she is known as Eos.
  - **Tithonus:** Tithonus is a mortal prince whom Aurora falls in love with. Desiring to be with him forever, she asks Zeus to grant him immortality. However, she forgets to request eternal youth for Tithonus as well.

- **The Curse:**
  - **Immortality without Youth:** Although Tithonus is granted immortality, he continues to age and eventually becomes a withered old man. He is transformed into a cicada or a grasshopper (depending on the version of the myth) and is condemned to spend eternity in this state, symbolizing the torment of endless aging without death.

- **Symbolism:**
  - **Immortality and Aging:** The story of Tithonus highlights the theme that immortality without eternal youth is a curse rather than a blessing. It reflects the Greek understanding of the natural cycle of life and the burdens of eternal existence.
  - **Divine Love and Care:** Aurora’s love for Tithonus represents the gods’ care for mortals and the complexities that arise from divine intervention in human lives.

### **Picart’s Depiction of Tithonus and Aurora**

- **Artistic Representation:**
  - **Temple of the Muses:** In Picart’s illustrations, the story of Tithonus and Aurora might be depicted within the context of the Temple of the Muses. This setting emphasizes the myth’s connection to themes of beauty, time, and divine love. The Temple of the Muses, dedicated to the goddesses of art and inspiration, serves as an appropriate backdrop for this poignant tale.
  - **Visual Elements:** Picart’s depiction would likely include Aurora in her chariot, bringing the dawn, alongside Tithonus in his decrepit state. The scene might illustrate Aurora’s sadness or regret as she looks upon her aging lover.

- **Artistic Style:**
  - **Detail and Accuracy:** Picart’s engravings are known for their meticulous detail. His portrayal of Tithonus and Aurora would capture the contrasts between the vibrant goddess of the dawn and the aging mortal. The transformation of Tithonus into a cicada or grasshopper might also be depicted with careful attention to mythological accuracy.
  - **Symbolic Imagery:** The illustration would likely include symbolic elements such as the dawn chariot, representing Aurora’s role in bringing light, and the withered form of Tithonus, emphasizing the tragic aspect of his immortality.

### **Artistic and Historical Context**

- **Influence:** Picart’s work had a notable impact on the 18th-century interpretation of classical mythology. His detailed visual representations helped shape contemporary understandings of these myths and their themes.
  
- **Educational Value:** The depiction of Tithonus and Aurora in the context of the Temple of the Muses offers valuable insights into how classical myths were visualized during Picart’s time. His work provides a detailed record of the artistic and symbolic elements of mythological stories.

### **Summary**

Bernard Picart’s illustration of **Tithonus and Aurora** within the **Temple of the Muses** offers a detailed and evocative portrayal of this classic mythological narrative. The story explores themes of immortality, eternal love, and the consequences of divine intervention. Picart’s work captures the dramatic contrast between Aurora’s eternal beauty and Tithonus’s aging form, reflecting both the artistic and symbolic aspects of the myth. Through his detailed engravings, Picart provides a valuable visual record of classical mythology, contributing to the understanding and appreciation of these enduring stories.