The Triumph of Henry IV

The Triumph of Henry IV by Peter Paul Rubens is an impressive oil on wood study dating from the period 1625-1635. This Baroque painting is a key surviving fragment related to the massive cycle of works commissioned by Marie de’ Medici to glorify her late husband, King Henry IV of France, illustrating the apex of political and historical allegory in 17th-century Flemish art. Rubens, renowned for his dynamic compositions and vibrant color application, utilized swift, powerful brushstrokes and detailed preparatory drawing typical of his highly productive workshop practice.

The composition focuses on the victorious moment of the King, who is portrayed riding triumphantly, likely in a processional chariot pulled by spirited Horses. The dramatic arrangement showcases powerful Men on horseback leading the procession, flanked by allegorical figures, often Women, who represent victory or fame. The energy conveyed through the arrangement of the figures and their interaction captures the high drama and sense of movement characteristic of Rubens’s historical narrative paintings, providing invaluable insight into the artist’s monumental planning process.

As a crucial example of the Flemish master’s historical output, the work is classified as a painting within the esteemed European Paintings collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its age and significance mean that high-resolution images of the artwork have entered the public domain, allowing enthusiasts and scholars globally to study the details of Rubens's technique. Consequently, high-quality fine art prints of this seminal work are widely accessible today.