10 most famous paintings by artist Peter Paul Rubens

Peter Paul Rubens is a world-famous Dutch artist who is a prominent representative of the Baroque era. Each of his paintings is a true work of art. Of particular value were his works on mythological and religious themes.

However, in addition to them, the artist also created self-portraits, as well as paintings depicting situations that excite him, occurring in a certain period of time. Rubens had a style of his own that makes his work easy to recognize.

Throughout his life, the artist created more than 3000 paintings, 10 of which definitely deserve attention. They are the most famous works of all times and peoples.

10 Union of Earth and Water (1618)

The painting in the style of “Baroque” is fraught with an allegorical mystery. The images of ancient mythology embody the idea of ​​the union of 2 elements: water (it is personified by the God of the seas Neptune) and earth (its representative is Cybele). Such a union is overshadowed by the goddess Glory who descended from Olympus, as well as Triton who emerged from the depths of the sea.

Neptune is depicted by Rubens as a muscular, gray-haired old man. With one hand he leans on a trident, with the other he holds the palm of Cybele. On his head he wears a wreath of laurel leaves, similar to the one held by the goddess Glory.

The bored look of Cybele testifies to her indifference to the ruler of the seas. In her hand she holds a cornucopia. Children frolic under the feet of the interlocutors, and Triton blows into the shell.

An interesting fact: In his painting, Rubens reflects a problem that was relevant for that period of time: the union of Earth and Water meant the “relationship” between Antwerp and the Scheldt River, the mouth of which was blocked by the Dutch, who deprived Flanders of access to the sea.

9. Daughter Clara (1618)

The canvas depicts the artist’s eldest daughter from his marriage to Isabella Brant.. The picture was painted shortly before the death of the girl (Clara died at the age of 12). However, despite this, warmth radiates from the portrait, radiating from a little girl with rosy cheeks and a childishly naive look.

To draw the face, the artist used the technique of transparent strokes. The snow-white Dutch collar sets off Clara’s face, emphasizing the fragility of her nature.

For reference: The painting is rightfully recognized as one of the most touching children’s portraits in the history of world painting. This work was estimated at 6.8 million dollars.

8. Descent from the Cross (1612)

This painting is an altar triptych.. Today it is located in the Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp (the artist’s hometown), for which it was written. In the central part of the canvas is the figure of Christ, which seems to be floating in the air.

His lifeless body was taken down from the cross. It is about to find itself in the hands of the Apostle John. In addition to him, there are 7 more actors in the picture. One of the old men holds the body of Christ by the hand, and the girl from below gently supports him by the leg.

For reference: The artist intentionally gave the body of Jesus a pale lead hue. With this technique, he wanted to show the resemblance to a marble statue.

7. Self-portrait (1623)

This is a picture that deserves special attention.. In it you can catch the mood of the artist at the time of its creation. There is an opinion that the writing of a self-portrait is associated with the diplomatic activities of Rubens.

Peter Paul is depicted with a serious expression on his face. He is decorated with a hat, under which the curly hair of the artist is hidden. The cloak and white collar underline the strict image of Rubens. The self-portrait reflects the high social position of the artist.

For reference: The painting is part of the collection of the Royal Gallery of Kensington Palace.

6. Coronation of Marie de Medici (1625)

This work of art was created by Rubens commissioned by Marie de Medici, mother of Louis XIII. The scene taking place in the painting is dedicated to her coronation. Cardinal de Joyeuse places the crown on the head of the Medici.

The climax is watched by the prelates – Cardinals de Gondi and de Surdis, as well as those accompanying Mary. On one side of her stands her daughter Henrietta Maria, and on the other, the Dauphin. The ceremony is watched by King Henry IV, whose figure Rubens placed next to the altar.

For reference: The actions depicted in the picture are based on real events. The coronation took place on May 13, 1610 in Paris.

5. Four Philosophers (1611-1612)

The painting has another name – “Just Lipsius and his students”. Rubens had a special relationship to this work, because on the canvas he depicted people dear to his heart: best friend Jan Vaverius, Bran Phillip, teacher Justus Lipsius. Above them stands the bust of Seneca.

Burgundy curtains hang over the window, revealing a piece of the landscape. Thanks to such decorative elements, the background of the picture can be called pompous and luxurious. However, the highlight of the work lies not in the scenery, but in the characters. Each of the philosophers displays certain emotions, by which one can recognize the type of their personality.

4. Three Graces (1639)

This is a picture with a rich history.. Rubenson was engaged in its creation in Stan Castle, where he “escaped” from social life in order to retire. The heroines of the picture were 3 goddesses, captured in the dance. Their slightly plump bodies are full of life and energy.

Soft lines, graceful movements, curves full of bliss – all this is a reflection of true female beauty, according to the artist. The painting embodies the harmony of body and spirit.

To support this idea, Peter Paul uses predominantly blue. Thanks to him, the artist manages to ideally connect the heavenly heights and the earthly world.

Interesting fact: A distinctive feature of Rubens’ work is that he depicts naked female bodies openly, straightforwardly and honestly. However, they do not look vulgar and vulgar.

3. Samson and Delilah (1609)

The painting depicts a biblical episode in which Samson falls asleep, falling on Delilah’s knees.. She is wearing a red dress, which is a symbol of passion and subsequent massacre.

Actions take place in a brothel. A man leans over the sleeping Samson, wanting to cut off his long hair. It is worth noting that they are considered the source of incredible power given to him by God.

For reference: The painting is currently in the museum – the National Gallery in London.

2. Last Judgment (1617)

This is an oil painting on canvas.. The epic picture shows the confrontation between God and Satan, heaven and hell. The composition is built on the principle of a triangle.

Jesus is in the center. To the left of him is the figure of Moses with the tablets. At the right hand of Christ stands the Mother of God and St. Peter, holding the keys to paradise.

A dove, representing the Holy Spirit, flies over the head of Jesus. God the Father is watching the action from the very heavens. On his knees lies the Sphere of the World.

1. The Rape of the Daughters of Leucippus (1618)

This is one of the most famous paintings.. Its plot is based on the myth of the Dioscuri brothers (sons of Zeus and Leda), who kidnapped the daughters of King Leucippus, Gilaira and Phoebe. The canvas captures the most dramatic moment of the kidnapping.

Against the background of a low horizon and a golden dawn sky, 8 figures are located. In the background, horses rear up, feeling the tension of the moment.

The Dioscuri brothers are in a fight with the girls, trying to put them on horseback. Gilairu and Phoebus resist this, but naked bodies testify to their defenselessness and weakness.