The Judgement of Paris (Edward Poynter)

"The Judgment of Paris" by Edward Poynter depicts the myth where Paris, a prince of Troy, judges a contest among the goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. Each goddess offers a bribe: Hera promises power, Athena offers wisdom and victory in battle, and Aphrodite offers the love of the most beautiful woman, Helen. Paris chooses Aphrodite’s offer, which leads to the abduction of Helen and sparks the Trojan War. Poynter’s painting captures this decisive moment, emphasizing beauty and fairness in the judgment, highlighting its significance as a mythological cause of legendary conflict.