The Rape of Europa
1628 Museo del Prado
About this artwork
This oil on canvas painting depicts the classical Greek myth of Zeus transforming into a white bull to abduct Europa. Rubens painted this work while in Madrid, heavily inspired by Titian's earlier version of the same subject.
Did you know?
Peter Paul Rubens created this painting while serving as a diplomat in Madrid, where he spent his spare time studying the royal art collections. He was deeply influenced by Titian's depiction of the same scene, and in his own version, he injected his characteristic sense of dramatic motion, muscular dynamism, and vibrant color.
On your wall. Unlock the HD download and keep this piece in your Vault — forever.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
The Rape of Europa
Peter Paul Rubens, 1628
