In this painting, Rubens used the myth of the Dioscuri brothers, the sons of Zeus and Leda, Castor and Pollux, who kidnapped the daughters of King Leucippus, Gilaira and Phoebe. In this story, Rubens was fascinated by the very dramatic moment of the abduction, which provides rich opportunities for plastic solutions.

The Abduction of the Daughters of Leucippus is a painting by Peter Paul Rubens created in the early 1620s. This work is part of a series of paintings Rubens commissioned for the new construction of the Luxembourg Palace in Paris.

Description:

Mythological plot:

The painting is based on the myth of the abduction of the daughters of the god Neptune by Leucippus, the son of the sun god Helios. Leucippus, in love with his daughters, Hileira and Phoibe, kidnaps them along with his brother Polycarp.

Dynamic and expressive:

Known for his mastery of dynamic scenes and expressive bodies, Rubens created a work of painting filled with movement and energy. The figures in the paintings have strength and plasticity.

Color palette:

Bright and rich colors are another characteristic element of Rubens' style. He used colors to enhance the drama and beauty of the scene.

Meaning:

Mythological symbolism:

The painting, based on a myth, contains elements of mythology, such as wings and dark clouds, referencing the divine origins of the characters.

Baroque art:

This work is an excellent example of Baroque art, characterized by drama, emotion and monumentality.

Completion:

Rubens' "The Rape of the Daughters of Leucippus" is a magnificent example of his talent and style. This work of art not only conveys a mythological scene, but also enriches it with energy and beauty, which is characteristic of the work of this great Flemish artist.