Who painted Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus (verso)?

Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus (verso) was painted by Peter Paul Rubens in 1638.

Where can I see Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus (verso)?

Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus (verso) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus (verso)?

Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus (verso) is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus (verso)

Peter Paul Rubens , 1638

Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus (verso) is a drawing by the Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens. It dates from 1638 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1954.2.b
Credit line: Delia E. Holden and L. E. Holden Funds

About this work

Overview

This drawing on the verso of a sheet of paper is a preparatory sketch by Peter Paul Rubens for a painting depicting the ancient legend of Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus. Characterized by loose, energetic lines, it showcases Rubens' initial creative process.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing illustrates Queen Tomyris's vengeance for her son's death in battle, holding the severed head of Cyrus, her son's murderer, in a bag of human blood. Tomyris is depicted seated under a canopy, holding a scepter, with servants handling Cyrus’s head before her.

Technique & Style

Executed with loose, expressive chalk lines, the sketch demonstrates Rubens' dynamic drawing technique. The use of chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, adds depth and vitality to the figures, even in this preliminary stage.

History & Provenance

This verso sketch is paired with a recto study for Rubens' 'Feast of Herod'. Two finished paintings of Tomyris with the Head of Cyrus exist, located in Paris and Boston. A notation 'plus spatij' (more space) by Rubens indicates his compositional considerations.