Saint George and the Dragon Poster

Peter Paul Rubens' Saint George and the Dragon (circa 1605–1607) is a monumental oil on canvas painting measuring 309 × 257 cm, currently housed in the Museo del Prado, Madrid. Created during Rubens' Italian period in Genoa, the work depicts the legendary Christian saint, mounted on a powerful white horse, poised to strike the dragon threatening a princess who symbolises the Church. The terrified lamb she holds represents Jesus Christ as the "Lamb of God," while Saint George’s dominant stance over the dragon signifies the triumph of good over evil. The dragon is depicted with serpent-like features, alluding to the biblical serpent from the Garden of Eden, emphasising the cosmic battle between good and evil. Rubens’ composition is dynamic, with a strong diagonal created by the horse, and dramatic use of light and shadow reflecting his study of classical sculpture and Michelangelo’s figures. The painting was likely commissioned for the Church of Sant'Ambrogio in Genoa but remained in Rubens’ possession until his death, after which it was acquired by King Felipe IV of Spain.