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In order to embody the union of
the two elements, Rubens took figures from Classical mythology: resting
on the trident is the god of the sea, Neptune, representing Water,
whilst Cybele (Mother of the Gods), with the horn of plenty in her hand,
is Earth. The prosperous union of Earth and Water, bringing mankind
wealth and plenty, is blessed by the goddess of Victory, who descends
from Mount Olympus, and is heralded on a conch by the Triton, who has
raised himself up from the watery depths. The sculptural treatment of
these painted figures is evidence of Rubens's great respect for
Classical art. The source of inspiration for Cybele was in fact the
famous statue of the Resting Satyr by Praxiteles (Vatican, Rome).
At the same time, the pyramidal composition, built on principles of
symmetry and balanced forms, the sensuous treatment of the naked bodies
and the warm golden-brown colouring, all indicate the influence of the
Italian Renaissance, particularly of Venetian artists, whom Rubens
idolised. But in turning to the traditional theme of the elements,
Rubens filled it with contemporary meaning, linking it with burning
contemporary questions of great importance to his native land: in the
union of Earth and Water, Rubens depicted the union of Antwerp and the
River Scheldt, the mouth of which was then blocked by the Dutch,
depriving Flanders of an outlet to the sea. Thus Rubens united myth and
reality, nature and man, Antiquity and national history. |
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Online replica painting:
Click on the
thumbnails to view full-size images... |
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07/10/2004 |
07/21/2004 |
08/29/2004 |
10/03/2004 |
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07/10/2004 |
07/21/2004 |
07/21/2004 |
08/05/2004 |
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08/05/2004 |
08/13/2004 |
08/13/2004 |
09/29/2004 |
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09/12/2004 |
09/12/2004 |
10/03/2004 |
10/03/2004 |
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The copying was finished. |
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