The Union of Earth and Water (Antwerp and the Scheldt)
Peter Paul Rubens·1618
Historical Context
Rubens painted The Union of Earth and Water around 1618, an allegorical work celebrating the prosperity of Antwerp through the union of the earth goddess Cybele with the sea god Neptune. The painting has been interpreted as a political allegory for the reopening of the Scheldt River to commerce, which was vital to Antwerp's economic survival. Rubens, who was deeply involved in diplomatic efforts to promote Antwerp's interests, used mythological allegory to address contemporary political concerns.
Technical Analysis
The composition brings together two monumental nude figures representing earth and water in a dynamic embrace. Rubens' warm, luminous flesh painting and the rich surrounding attributes of both elements create a powerful allegorical image of abundance and harmony.
Look Closer
- ◆The male figure representing the Scheldt river reclines while the female figure of Antwerp leans toward him — their union symbolizes the city's dependence on river trade
- ◆A cornucopia overflows with fruits and goods, representing the commercial prosperity that the Scheldt brings to Antwerp
- ◆A putto plays with a crocodile, an exotic creature symbolizing distant waters and global trade connections
- ◆The composition echoes ancient Roman river god sculptures, which Rubens sketched during his Italian years
Condition & Conservation
This allegorical painting celebrating Antwerp's prosperity has been in the Hermitage collection. Conservation has addressed the typical challenges of large-format 17th-century canvases. The painting has been relined and cleaned, with the robust flesh tones and rich color palette well-preserved.
