Cecrops’ Daughters Finding Erichtonius. Sketch Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640)

The sketch presents a scene steeped in mythological narrative, centered around three female figures and a small, bundled form within a woven basket. The composition is structured around a central grouping, with the women clustered closely together, their gazes directed towards the contents of the basket. A sense of discovery and gentle astonishment permeates their expressions; they appear to be witnessing something unexpected or miraculous.
The artist has employed a warm palette dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, and muted reds – which contribute to an atmosphere of antiquity and intimacy. The lighting is soft and diffused, highlighting the figures’ skin tones while obscuring details in the background, drawing attention to the central action. Brushstrokes are loose and expressive, characteristic of a preparatory sketch, suggesting a rapid execution focused on capturing the essential elements of the scene rather than meticulous detail.
Behind the women, an elaborate architectural setting unfolds. An arched niche is framed by ornate columns adorned with sculpted heads, hinting at a classical or mythological context. A fountain, populated by a sculptural group depicting a human figure interacting with what appears to be a mythical creature (perhaps a centaur), provides a backdrop of symbolic richness. The presence of the fountain introduces themes of nurture and abundance, potentially linking it to the discovery of the infant within the basket.
The arrangement of the figures suggests a hierarchy of involvement. One woman sits closest to the viewer, her posture suggesting active participation in the unfolding event. Another stands slightly behind her, leaning forward with an expression of curiosity. The third figure kneels intently over the basket, seemingly the primary discoverer. This spatial arrangement reinforces the narrative’s focus on the moment of revelation and shared wonder.
Subtleties within the composition invite deeper interpretation. The basket itself, a symbol of concealment and potential, holds the key to the scenes meaning. Its placement in the foreground emphasizes its importance, while the bundled form within suggests vulnerability and dependence. The surrounding foliage – visible through the architectural opening – hints at nature’s role in this narrative, perhaps implying divine intervention or a connection to primordial origins.
The overall effect is one of quiet drama and understated emotion. While the sketch lacks the polish of a finished work, it effectively conveys a sense of mystery and invites speculation about the identity of the figures and the significance of their discovery. The scene likely alludes to themes of lineage, divine favor, and the unexpected emergence of life into the world.