The Rape of the Daughters of Leucippus is a famous Baroque painting created by Peter Paul Rubens and Jan Wildens in 1618. Currently on display at the Alte Pinakothek in Munich, the painting depicts Phoebe and Hilaera, also known as “Leucippides,” being raped by Castor and Pollux shortly before their wedding. The painting is notable for its Flemish Baroque style, characterized by its dramatic lighting and abundance of movement.
The two victims, Phoebe and Hilaera, are daughters of Leucippus in Greek mythology. In the painting, Phoebe marries Pollux after being raped by him and bears him a son. Johann Wilhelm purchased this work in 1716 from Antwerp before sending it to Munich where it is currently exhibited.
Ruben’s use of characteristic elements such as vivid colors, chiaroscuro effect reflects his mastery skills as an artist providing high-quality artwork that captures historical information through visuals. The Rape of the Daughters of Leucippus remains one of Rubens’ most famous works to date portraying brutality and violation against women while adding new meaning to the story through art rendition.
