Artwork

Reconciliation of the Romans and the Sabines (recto)

Reconciliation of the Romans and the Sabines (recto), by Peter Paul Rubens, 1634
Reconciliation of the Romans and the Sabines (recto), by Peter Paul Rubens, 1634

Reconciliation of the Romans and the Sabines (recto) is a drawing by the Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Reconciliation of the Romans and the Sabines is a drawing created by Peter Paul Rubens around 1634. It is a representation of a pivotal moment in Roman history, rendered in a dynamic and expressive style characteristic of the Flemish Baroque tradition.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a chaotic scene in a Roman square, where men and women are intertwined, and women hold up babies as symbols of peace. The figures are engaged in various actions, such as grasping each other's arms or swords, conveying a sense of tension and resolution.

Technique & Style

Rubens' composition is marked by a dense arrangement of figures and a vivid color palette, with red cloaks and gold armor standing out against cool shadows. The style is typical of the Counter-Reformation, characterized by movement and sensuality.

Context

This drawing is part of Rubens' broader output of history paintings, which encompassed a range of subjects, including mythological and allegorical themes, alongside more traditional genres like altarpieces, portraits, and landscapes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Peter Paul Rubens

Artist

Peter Paul Rubens

Sir Peter Paul Rubens ( ROO-bənz; Dutch: ; 28 June 1577 – 30 May 1640) was a Flemish artist and diplomat.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.