 I/Achilles
and Patroklos: The Masks of Grief and War, compressed charcoal on paper, (fusain pressé sur
papier), 24” x 29” (105,41
cm x 74,93 cm), © 1996. Private collection.
This drawing is insired by a passage in the Iliad, in which Achilles refuses to fight in the Trojan War
(his band of warriors are prevented from fighting, too) because he was personally offended by one of
the other Greek leaders. His beloved friend Patroklos, in order to rally to tiring and failing Greek
army, dons Achilles’ armor and leads them into battle. He is thus killed. Achilles is grief stricken
over the results of his selfishness. This drawing, then, is the moment he rushes to the body of his dead
friend, and The Mask of Grief and War is born. It may also be noted that this is a self-portrait
as well.
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