Peter Paul Rubens – Ixion Deceived by Juno Part 2 Louvre

In Peter Paul Rubens Ixion Deceived by Juno, the painting depicts a dramatic scene from Greek mythology.

What I see:

The central figures are Ixion, a powerful, muscular man, embracing a nude woman who is attempting to turn away. Ixions grip is firm, and his expression suggests desire. The woman, with a crown on her head, appears distressed or perhaps resigned. Behind them, a draped crimson cloth billows, partially obscuring the scene and creating a sense of swirling movement.

Above this central couple, figures of winged cherubs or putti are present. One cherub seems to be actively pulling the red drapery, contributing to the visual chaos. Another cherub, to the right, holds a flaming torch. Peacocks, symbols of Juno, are prominently featured, with their ornate feathers fanning out. In the upper right background, a bearded, majestic figure sits among the clouds, possibly representing a divine observer. The overall composition is dynamic, filled with fleshy, idealized nudes and dramatic lighting, characteristic of Rubens Baroque style.

Subtexts:

The painting illustrates the myth of Ixion, who was tricked by Juno, the queen of the gods, into making love with an illusionary cloud in the shape of Hera (Junos Roman name). Juno devised this deception to test Ixions lust and to expose his inappropriate desires for her.

• Deception and Illusion: The core of the myth is deception. Junos creation of the cloud-woman is an illusion designed to trap Ixion. The billowing drapery and the swirling clouds emphasize this theme of disorientation and the ephemeral nature of what Ixion believes to be real.
• Lust and its Consequences: Ixions overweening lust for Hera is the driving force behind his downfall. The painting visually represents his sinful desire through his aggressive embrace. The presence of Junos symbol, the peacock, serves as a constant reminder of her divine presence and her role in orchestrating Ixions humiliation.
• Divine Justice and Punishment: The scene foreshadows Ixions punishment. By being conned into this act, Ixion is exposed and ultimately condemned to be eternally tormented on a spinning, fiery wheel in Tartarus. The figure in the clouds and the torch-bearing cherub hint at the impending divine judgment.
• Female Power and Agency (within limitations): While Juno is the architect of this deception, the painting doesnt show her directly. Instead, her presence is symbolized through the peacocks. However, her cleverness and agency in manipulating Ixion are central to the narrative. The cloud-woman, though an illusion, is depicted with a degree of pathos, perhaps suggesting the victimhood of both Ixion and the cloud itself, a creation of divine wrath.
• Rubens Aesthetic: Beyond the narrative, the painting showcases Rubens mastery of depicting the human form, dynamic movement, and rich textures. The sensuality of the nudes and the vibrant colors are deliberate artistic choices to engage the viewer emotionally and aesthetically.