The Return from War: Mars Disarmed by Venus
(5000-1830)

by Peter Paul Rubens; Jan Brueghel the Elde

Amid the disarray of forge, leans into the embrace of her lover, , who is transfixed by her alluring gaze. Caught up in his attraction to the aggressively seductive goddess, Mars is no longer able to carry out his military exploits. Venus removes his helmet, while mischievous cavort with his sword and shield. In the 1600s, the subject of Venus disarming her lover Mars was understood as an of Peace. Peter Paul Rubens and Jan Brueghel the Elder's interpretation of the subject, however, emphasizes the fragility of peace. Weapons production continues in the at the burning fires of Vulcan's hearth, signaling that love's conquest of war may be only temporary. Rubens and Brueghel, who were close colleagues, collaborated on at least twenty-five paintings. This painting displays each virtuoso's talents: Rubens's robust figural style and Brueghel's intricate still life details. The luminous figure of Venus, the reflective quality of the weapons and armor, and the tactile quality of the lush painting testify to their skill.

Oil on panel (about 1610-1612)

by Peter Paul Rubens (Flemish, 1577-1640); and Jan Brueghel the Elder (Flemish, 1568-1625)