The Abduction of Proserpina 1614 - 1615

Peter Paul Rubens's dynamic oil painting, *The Abduction of Proserpina*, depicts the Roman myth of the goddess Proserpina being taken from the world of the living to the underworld by the god Pluto. The scene portrays the struggle and tension of the event, with Proserpina resisting Pluto’s grasp as he carries her away in his chariot. The painting exemplifies Rubens's mastery of Baroque style with its dramatic composition, vibrant colors, and dynamic figures. Rubens, a leading figure in the Flemish Baroque movement, was known for his energetic brushstrokes and his exploration of the human form. *The Abduction of Proserpina*, created between 1614 and 1615, showcases Rubens's signature style, which was characterized by sensuality, movement, and an emphasis on flesh and muscle.