Battle of the Amazons

Battle of the Amazons

Peter Paul Rubens

1550

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This print shows a chaotic battle scene with lots of people and horses tangled together. Some figures are on horseback, others are on foot, and there’s a mix of weapons like swords and spears. The scene is packed with movement—some people are falling, others are fighting, and the whole thing looks messy and dramatic. The title at the bottom, *Sic Victoria Victis*, is Latin for “Thus victory to the vanquished,” which hints at a twist on who really won. The print is packed with tiny details, like the horses rearing up and the soldiers’ armor. Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see this print in person.

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