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Carlos y Ubaldo en las islas Afortunadas by David Teniers the Younger

David Teniers the Younger · 1628-01-01

This is Carlos y Ubaldo en las islas Afortunadas by David Teniers the Younger, painted circa 1628 and housed at the Museo del Prado. The painting depicts a scene from epic poetry, likely Tasso's Gerusalemme Liberata, where knights Carlo and Ubaldo arrive at the enchanted island of Armida.

Look at the woman in red, Armida, seated in her boat. She is surrounded by a magical garden, with a table laden with food and alluring figures reaching out. The knights in armor are prepared for the illusions they must overcome.

David Teniers the Younger created this work early in his prolific career. It showcases his ability to blend realistic detail with fantastical elements, creating a world of enchantment and deception. The painting has been part of the Museo del Prado's collection for centuries.

Will the knights see through Armida's spells?

Details

A sorceress waits in her magical garden.
A sorceress waits in her magical garden.
Her knights arrive, on a quest to rescue Rinaldo.
Her knights arrive, on a quest to rescue Rinaldo.
But illusions try to stop them.
But illusions try to stop them.
Look at the food. It is not real.
Look at the food. It is not real.
This knight's presence suggests a companion or another key figure in the quest.
This knight's presence suggests a companion or another key figure in the quest.
Transcript

This enchanted island is not what it seems. A sorceress waits in her magical garden. Her knights arrive, on a quest to rescue Rinaldo. But illusions try to stop them. She is Armida, the enchantress. Teniers painted this in 1628. Look at the food. It is not real. Reality bends to her will.