The Abduction of the Sabine Women, Nicolas Poussin (c. 1633–1634)

The Abduction of the Sabine Women, Nicolas Poussin (c. 1633–1634) The Abduction of the Sabine Women exemplifies Poussin’s deep study of classical antiquity, blending dynamic movement with precise composition. The figures, inspired by ancient Roman sculptures, are arranged with the elegance of a choreographed stage performance, frozen in a moment of intense action. Poussin’s mastery of color and drapery adds to the dramatic tension, while his meticulous planning —originally using small wax models within a miniature theater— ensured the painting’s refined spatial harmony. The subject, drawn from Roman mythology, depicts the fateful moment when Romulus, the city’s legendary founder, signaled his warriors to seize the Sabine women as wives. This significant work, once owned by the French ambassador to Rome, later became part of the collection of Cardinal Richelieu, chief minister to King Louis XIII. Cotton and polyester canvas on Radiata pine wood frame sourced from renewable forests. Incl