The Battle of the Amazons by Peter Paul Rubens was created in 1618 and is in Alte Pinakothek München. The size of the work is 120,3 x 165,3 cm and is made of oil on wood.
About the Artwork
Two planes were created through the motif of the bridge on which the battle takes place. There, the opponents are clashing at the crest of the arch.The vanquished Amazons come crashing down to the right in a whirling movement; more Greeks are pushing their way forward from the left. They are the ones who will be victorious.
The tension-filled subject corresponds to the swift, fluid painterly style: Using powerful brushstrokes Rubens captured the spray of water from the river, the flowing horses’ manes, and the strength in the warriors’ movements as they prepare to strike.