Artwork
Armida ante Godofredo de Bouillon
Armida ante Godofredo de Bouillon is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist David Teniers the Younger. It dates from 1628 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The inclusion of these objects underscores a contrast between seductive power and heroic valor, a theme found in the epic poetry that inspired the scene.
The work, titled Armida ante Godofredo de Bouillon and painted by David Teniers the Younger in 1628, portrays the enchantress Armida confronting the Crusader leader Godfrey of Bouillon. Armida is shown with a combat helmet, shield, sword, spear and a book, attributes that combine martial and scholarly symbolism. The inclusion of these objects underscores a contrast between seductive power and heroic valor, a theme found in the epic poetry that inspired the scene.
The painting, executed in oil on copper, entered the Spanish royal collection and was later housed in the Museo del Prado.
Technique & Style
Created by David Teniers the Younger around 1628, Armida ante Godofredo de Bouillon is executed in oil paint on a copper support. The smooth metal support suited the small-scale format and allowed for a refined, detailed execution characteristic of the artist's early period. Measuring 27 cm in height and 39 cm in width, the painting presents a formal composition that integrates figures such as Armida and Godfrey of Bouillon alongside attributes including a combat helmet, shield, sword, and spear. The application of oil on copper enhances the luminosity and reflective quality of the surface.
History & Provenance
The work titled Armida ante Godofredo de Bouillon was painted by David Teniers the Younger in 1628. Executed in oil on copper, it measures 27 cm by 39 cm. Early records indicate that the painting entered the Spanish royal collection, owned successively by Philip V, Elisabeth Farnese, Charles III, and Ferdinand VII before being accessioned by the Museo del Prado, with which it remains associated at sites including the Royal Palace of Aranjuez and the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso. Some records give a secondary date of 1629.
No specific inventory number or detailed exhibition history for this work is provided in the available sources.
Overview
David Teniers the Younger completed Armida ante Godofredo de Bouillon in 1628. This oil painting, now part of the collection at the Museo del Prado, presents a narrative scene. It is an early work by the artist, showcasing his developing approach to historical and mythological subjects. The composition features several figures, rendered with attention to detail characteristic of the period.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
David Teniers the Younger or David Teniers II was a Flemish Baroque painter, printmaker, and artist.
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