Queen Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus 1630

"Queen Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus," painted by Peter Paul Rubens in 1630, depicts a scene from ancient history. Tomyris, the queen of the Massagetae, holds the severed head of Cyrus the Great, the Persian King, in her hand, while her soldiers surround her. This work captures the drama of the event, showcasing Rubens' signature Baroque style through the dynamic composition, exaggerated poses, and dramatic lighting. The painting likely draws upon a scene described by Herodotus, a Greek historian, in his writings about Cyrus' defeat and death at the hands of the Massagetae.