The print, titled Prometheus geboeid (Prometheus Bound), depicts Prometheus standing with one foot resting on a branch.
His arms extend upward, with large wings attached to them, while his hands appear to be restrained.
Sunlight radiates across the background, and two human skulls lie beneath the branch.
Strong contrasts, intricate linework, and dramatic forms emphasize the figure's struggle.
The artwork was formerly catalogued as Icarus.
The composition combines Greek mythology with several suggestive visual elements:
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Prometheus: The mythological Titan associated with bringing fire to humanity and defying the gods.
- A winged figure struggles against unseen restraints in Prometheus Bound, an 1897 print by Johannes Josephus Aarts (1881–1934). With both arms raised and his hands apparently bound, Prometheus stands above two skulls as rays of sunlight illuminate the background. The bold black-and-white composition offers an unusual interpretation of the Greek myth of Prometheus.
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Bound hands: Captivity, punishment, and the consequences of rebellion.
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Wings: May suggest freedom, aspiration, or the desire to escape.
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Sunlight: A possible symbol of hope, enlightenment, or divine power.
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Human skulls: Mortality and the consequences of suffering.
These interpretations reflect the imagery rather than a documented explanation of the artist's intentions.
Johannes Josephus Aarts (1881–1934) was a Dutch artist and printmaker whose work included mythology, allegory, and grotesque subjects.
Created in 1897, this print draws upon the Greek myth of Prometheus, who was punished by Zeus for stealing fire and giving it to humanity.
In classical mythology, Prometheus was chained to a rock, where an eagle repeatedly consumed his liver.
Aarts presents an unusual winged interpretation of the imprisoned figure.
The original print is preserved in the Rijksmuseum collection, catalogued as Prometheus geboeid.
- Reproduction of Prometheus Bound by Johannes Josephus Aarts
- Original Dutch print dated 1897
- Winged Prometheus with raised, apparently bound hands
- Two human skulls beneath the central figure
- Dramatic sunlight and detailed black-and-white linework
- Greek mythology and allegorical imagery
- Original artwork held in the Rijksmuseum collection
- Giclée printing on archival paper
- Smooth matte finish
- Available in multiple sizes
- Artwork proportionally scaled to preserve the original composition
- Printed margins may vary depending on the selected size
- Supplied unframed
- Slight production size tolerance of approximately ±1/16 inch
Handle with clean, dry hands. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and moisture. Gently remove surface dust with a clean, dry cloth.
