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Hero and Leander, c. 1604 (oil on canvas)
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Hero and Leander, c. 1604 (oil on canvas)
3366953 Hero and Leander, c.1604 (oil on canvas) by Rubens, Peter Paul (1577-1640); 95.9x128 cm; Yale University Art Gallery, New Haven, CT, USA; (add.info.: Leander of Abydos swam the Hellespont for midnight meetings with Hero, priestess of Aphrodite, who lived in a tower in Sestos on the other side of the strait. One fatal stormy night he drowned in the waves, and the despairing Hero cast herself into the sea to join him in death.
); Flemish, out of copyright
Media ID 18260367
© Yale University Art Gallery, New Haven, CT, USA / Bridgeman Images
Dardanelles Dark Drowned Drowning Flemish Hellespont Storm Waves Lovers
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This print captures the tragic tale of Hero and Leander, immortalized by the renowned Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens. Painted in 1604, this oil on canvas masterpiece measures 95.9x128 cm and is currently housed at Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven, CT. The painting depicts the ill-fated love story between Leander of Abydos and Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite. Despite living on opposite sides of the Hellespont strait, they would meet secretly at midnight to be together. However, one stormy night tragedy struck as Leander drowned while attempting to cross the treacherous waves to reach his beloved Hero. Overwhelmed with grief and despair upon learning about her lover's demise, Hero decided to join him in death by casting herself into the sea. This poignant scene is beautifully portrayed by Rubens through his masterful use of dark tones and dramatic lighting characteristic of Baroque art. The painting not only captures their untimely deaths but also symbolizes eternal love that transcends even death itself. The naked bodies floating amidst turbulent waters evoke a sense of vulnerability and fragility against nature's wrath. Rubens' portrayal skillfully combines elements from Greek mythology with classical aesthetics, creating a timeless piece that continues to captivate viewers centuries later. It serves as a reminder that true love can withstand any obstacle but may ultimately lead to tragic consequences.
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