Multiplex narrative, from Ancient Rome soon after 11 BCE, through Masaccio, to Corot in 1836, followed by Lovis Corinth and Benton in 1947.
narrative
Example paintings showing instantaneous, multi-image, multi-frame and polymythic narrative, from Poussin to Waterhouse.
Pythagoras links the myths in Ovid’s book in the constant changes seen in nature, and advocates vegetarianism. Then King Numa’s wife dictates to him the laws of Rome.
Parrots in still life paintings from the Dutch Golden Age, accompanying a Turkish page, in English summer, or passing Pierre Bonnard in Saint Tropez.
Parrots as extras in myths, witnessing Eve taking the apple from the serpent, and as companions to a succession of beautiful women.
Romulus ploughs the boundary of the city of Rome, then defeats the Sabine king Tatius, marries his daughter, and is eventually taken to be the god Quirinus.
More painted friezes from Gustav Klimt, Ferdinand Hodler, Evelyn De Morgan, Dante Gabriel Rossetti and others.
Paintings mimicking an architectural frieze, with figures flattened into a plane parallel to the picture plane. Used deliberately by Ferdinand Hodler and others.
The god of the seasons and gardens falls in love with a devoted gardener, but can’t woo her successfully when posing as someone else.
Mr Punch and his wife Judy, and the crocodile as acted by puppets and itinerant players, and circus clowns. Paintings by Cézanne, Renoir and others.
The Eclectic Light Company 