“Hearing” is an allegorical painting created by the artist Peter Paul Rubens between 1617 and 1618, and it forms part of the “Five Senses” series crafted during the Baroque period. The artwork resides at the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain, serving as a testament to Rubens’ mastery in capturing the vivacity and grandeur that characterizes Baroque art.
The artwork is an intricate ensemble that conveys the sense of hearing through a diverse assortment of elements and scenes, meticulously composed to delight the viewer’s senses. At the center of the composition are two figures: a seated woman playing a lute and a child, both of whom are turned towards the viewer. The woman’s nudity is draped only by a flowing blue fabric that cascades over her legs, a common trope in allegorical representations to suggest purity or the natural state. The child—chubby and cherubic—appears to be engaging in an animated conversation with the woman, suggesting an intimate mother-child relationship.
Surrounding these central figures, the room is lavishly adorned with an array of musical instruments such as harps, lutes, and viols, signifying the importance of music to the theme of hearing. Scattered sheet music and a couple of exotic parrots contribute to the theme by representing the beauty and diversity of auditory experiences. The presence of various stringed and wind instruments alludes to the harmony and sophistication of auditory arts.
The setting of the painting is an opulent room with three large open archways, offering views of a distant landscape emphasizing tranquility and freedom, contrasting with the rich interior space. Lavish tapestries, a abundant collection of art on the walls, and a table covered with luxurious objects complete the scene. These worldly goods, ranging from scientific instruments to globes and ornate furniture, not only point to the wealth of the patron but also convey a broader context of the intellectual and cultural pursuits typical of the Baroque era.
Overall, the artwork is infused with dynamism and detail, representing a feast for the senses and a celebration of sound through nuanced symbolism and baroque extravagance.
