Troy Triptych – Study of Oblivion conquering Fame Sir Edward Burne-Jones (1833-1898)

The composition presents a stark confrontation between two opposing forces, embodied by distinct figures within a vertical format. A youthful male figure, possessing wings and adorned with a headband, dominates the scene. His musculature is rendered with considerable detail, emphasizing strength and dynamism as he leans forward, wielding a long spear. The spear’s point rests upon the head of a fallen individual lying prone on the ground.
The fallen figure appears aged and weary, his face partially obscured by a shroud or cloth. A cluster of smaller heads, seemingly disembodied, are scattered around him, suggesting a loss of identity or collective memory. These figures appear to be dissolving into the background, further reinforcing the theme of erasure. To the right of the composition, a collection of objects – a helmet, a scroll, and what appears to be writing implements – lie discarded, symbolizing the abandonment of heroic endeavors and intellectual pursuits.
The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing earth tones – ochres, browns, and muted yellows – which contribute to a sense of decay and melancholy. The limited use of brighter colors draws attention to the youthful figure’s skin tone, highlighting his vitality in contrast to the desolation surrounding him. Light falls dramatically upon the standing figure, emphasizing his physical presence and symbolic power while casting the fallen man and scattered objects into shadow.
The subtext of this work seems to explore the transient nature of fame and glory. The youthful figure, likely representing Oblivion or a similar force associated with forgetting, actively suppresses and conquers the legacy of the fallen hero. The discarded tools suggest that creative endeavors and martial prowess ultimately succumb to time’s relentless passage. The scattered heads imply not just individual loss but also the erosion of collective memory and historical significance. The overall effect is one of profound resignation, suggesting a cyclical pattern where even the most celebrated achievements are destined for eventual obscurity.