Thulden van Theodoor The Greeks leave after fire of Troy Sun Theodoor Van Thulden

The drawing presents a chaotic scene dominated by movement and intense emotion. Here we observe a group of figures emerging from what appears to be a cave or sheltered area, their forms rendered with energetic lines that convey urgency and exertion. They are positioned in the foreground against a backdrop of widespread destruction.
In the distance, a city is engulfed in flames. The artist has depicted this conflagration with swirling strokes, emphasizing the scale and intensity of the fire. Numerous figures can be discerned within the burning cityscape, some seemingly fleeing while others appear trapped or overwhelmed by the disaster. A large gate stands as a focal point amidst the devastation, suggesting a symbolic barrier between safety and ruin.
The foreground group exhibits a range of reactions to the unfolding events. Some are actively assisting others, lifting them with considerable effort. One figure kneels in apparent distress, while another seems to be comforting or consoling him. The expressions on their faces – though rendered through shading rather than detailed features – suggest anxiety, relief, and perhaps even grief.
The composition is structured around a diagonal line that leads the viewers eye from the sheltered foreground towards the fiery destruction in the background. This creates a sense of depth and emphasizes the contrast between the relative safety of the group and the overwhelming chaos they are leaving behind. The use of light and shadow further enhances this effect, highlighting the figures in the foreground while obscuring details within the burning city.
Subtly, the drawing explores themes of loss, survival, and the aftermath of conflict. It is not merely a depiction of an event but rather a meditation on human resilience in the face of catastrophe. The act of leaving – the transition from shelter to open space – symbolizes a departure from the past and a tentative step towards an uncertain future. The artist’s choice to focus on the immediate aftermath, rather than the battle itself, suggests an interest in the psychological toll of war and the enduring impact of destruction on individuals and communities.