The Finding of Erichthonius
1616 Liechtenstein Museum
About this artwork
This large-scale oil painting depicts the Greek mythological moment when the daughters of Cecrops discover the infant Erichthonius in a basket. It is a masterpiece of the Flemish Baroque period, commissioned to showcase dynamic movement and flesh tones.
Did you know?
Rubens was known for his love of mythological subjects and his ability to render soft, glowing flesh tones, a hallmark of his 'Rubenesque' style. In this painting, he incorporates a classical statue of a multi-breasted figure, likely an interpretation of Diana of Ephesus, which emphasizes the theme of fertility and nature. The dramatic contrast between the elderly nurse figure and the young, vibrant women highlights his skill in depicting diverse human textures.
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The Finding of Erichthonius
Peter Paul Rubens, 1616
