Skip to main content

Master of the Judgement of Paris, 'The Abduction of Helen', about 1440-50

About the work

Paris is carrying off Helen, wife of King Menelaus of Sparta, while her companions stand elegantly by. It was this action which precipitated the Trojan War. Helen may also be the woman on the left in conversation with a female companion.

The scene is painted on a 'desco da parto' or birth tray. 'Deschi da parto' were symbolic painted trays given to women either after or in anticipation of childbirth. They were often painted on the back with the emblems of the family.

Key facts

Full title
The Abduction of Helen
Artist
Master of the Judgement of Paris
Artist dates
active first half of the 15th century
Date made
about 1440-50
Medium and support
Tempera on wood
Dimensions
58 × 58 cm
Acquisition credit
On loan from a private collection
Inventory number
L667
Location
Not on display
Image copyright
On loan from a private collection, © Private collection 2000. Used by permission
Collection
Main Collection

About this record

If you know more about this painting or have spotted an error, please contact us. Please note that exhibition histories are listed from 2009 onwards. Bibliographies may not be complete; more comprehensive information is available in the National Gallery Library.