Equestrian Portrait of the Duke of Buckingham 1625

This is Peter Paul Rubens’ “Equestrian Portrait of the Duke of Buckingham”. Though the artwork’s date is unknown, it was created sometime in the first half of the 17th century. In this painting, Rubens elevates the Duke, who was a controversial figure at the English court, and depicts him as a triumphant hero. This image creates meaning through its use of classical allegory. The Duke is shown on horseback, a traditional symbol of power and authority. Rubens draws on the established iconography of equestrian portraiture to present the Duke as a strong and capable leader. The sea god Neptune and a Nereid cower in the lower left, symbolizing the Duke's naval victories. Above, a winged figure crowns him with a laurel wreath, a classical symbol of victory. Rubens was a master of Baroque art in Europe and was well-versed in classical literature and mythology. It’s likely that he used his knowledge to imbue this portrait with layers of meaning and symbolism. Examining letters and other documents from the period, and using these alongside studies of the artworks of other artists, helps historians interpret the meaning of the artwork and its relevance to the cultural and political context in which it was created.