The Fall of Phaeton | Peter Paul Rubens | 1605

The Fall of Phaeton by Flemish master Peter Paul Rubens is a dynamic and dramatic depiction of the Greek myth of Phaeton, a popular subject in art history. In this scene, Rubens captures the chaotic moment when Zeus (Jupiter) hurls his thunderbolts, seen in the upper right, to punish Phaeton for losing control of the chariot of the Sun. The thunderbolts illuminate the scene, heightening the terror and anguish on the faces of Phaeton, the rampaging horses, and the figures caught in the celestial disaster. The butterfly-winged women in the painting represent the Hours and Seasons, who recoil in horror as the natural order of night and day is thrown into chaos. The painting also shows the disrupted astrological circle arching through the heavens.

Rubens masterfully arranges the figures in a swirling diagonal oval that divides the canvas into contrasting areas of light and shadow, guiding the viewer's eye around the composition. The tightly packed bodies, twisting and falling in response to Phaeton's demise, embody the violent energy of the myth, while the celestial and earthly realms collide in a dramatic visual spectacle.

Frame:

Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age.

All framed prints feature our premium fine art paper. This is a museum-quality paper which reproduces photography and artworks with exceptional tonality and renders sharp details with consistent flatness and accuracy.

Print: 

For the matted / mounted prints we use a thick 1.4mm window mount cut from premium, textured mountboard. All mounts are "conservation grade", FSC certified, 100% acid free, and will not discolour or fade with age.

• Simple, elegant design
• Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface
• Handmade by specialist picture framers
• FSC certified off-white mat / window mount
• Delivered ready for hanging