After Peter Paul Rubens – The Horrors of War Part 1 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a chaotic scene dominated by figures in varying states of distress and suffering. A central grouping features a woman, seemingly allegorical, who gestures dramatically towards the right side of the canvas. Her pose is one of anguish and warning, her arms raised as if imploring or condemning what unfolds before her. Beside her stands another female figure, partially draped in red fabric, whose expression conveys both vulnerability and defiance. She appears to be attempting to intervene or shield those nearby from the unfolding violence.
To the right, a soldier clad in armor confronts a muscular male figure who seems to embody brute force and savagery. The soldier’s posture suggests resistance, while the other mans is one of unrestrained aggression. Behind them, a tumultuous throng of figures writhes in pain and despair. Infants are present amongst the suffering, their vulnerability starkly contrasting with the surrounding brutality. A winged figure, likely an angel or putto, hovers above, seemingly powerless to alleviate the scene’s horror.
The artist employed a dramatic chiaroscuro, utilizing strong contrasts between light and shadow to heighten the emotional impact of the work. The palette is rich and warm, dominated by reds, browns, and ochres, which contribute to the overall sense of intensity and turmoil. A scattering of books lies on the ground near the center, possibly symbolizing lost knowledge or cultural destruction.
The subtexts within this painting are complex and layered. It appears to be a commentary on the devastating consequences of conflict, not merely in terms of physical violence but also its impact on innocence and civilization. The presence of allegorical figures suggests that the work aims at a broader moral message, perhaps cautioning against the dangers of unchecked aggression and the importance of compassion and restraint. The depiction of vulnerable individuals – particularly children – serves to underscore the profound human cost of war. The overall effect is one of overwhelming sorrow and condemnation, leaving the viewer with a sense of unease and reflection on the destructive nature of humanity.