The Rape of the Daughters of Leucippus

The Rape of the Daughters of Leucippus is a 1618 painting by Peter Paul Rubens and Jan Wildens.

The painting was bought in Antwerp in 1716 by Johann Wilhelm, Elector Palatine.

The painting depicts the mortal Castor and the immortal Pollux abducting Phoebe and Hilaeira, daughters of Leucippus of Messenia.

Castor the horse-tamer is recognisable from his armour, whilst Pollux the boxer is shown with a bare and free upper body.

The putto's black wing shows the twins' ultimate fate.