Title of Artwork: “Saturn”

Artwork by Peter Paul Rubens

Year Created 1636-1638

All About Saturn by Peter Paul Rubens

Saturn or Saturn Devouring His Son is a 1636 painting by the Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens. It was commissioned for the Torre de la Parada by Philip IV of Spain and shows the influence of Michelangelo on Rubens, which he had picked up on his journey to Italy. The painting depicts the mythological figure Saturn eating one of his children. Within the painting, an elderly man with long grey hair and a beard stands in the nude with a black cloth draped across his legs and groyne. In his right hand, the god Saturn clasps a scythe, his inveterate attribute, using it to steady himself.

The painting is considered one of Rubens’ most famous works and is known for its dramatic composition and use of light and shadow. It has been interpreted in many ways over the years, with some seeing it as a commentary on the destructive nature of time while others view it as a warning against the dangers of unchecked power.