Peter Paul Rubens (1577–1640)
Baroque in full bloom – painter of grandeur, myth, and sensuality.
Style: Baroque dynamism, rich color, sensual forms. He painted mythological, religious, political, and erotic scenes with dramatic flair.
Technique: A true master’s workshop – he ran his studio like a business, with many assistants. He worked on commissions from aristocracy and the Church.
Fun fact: Rubens was also a diplomat, fluent in multiple languages, and deeply engaged in public life – an artist and politician combined.
For today: Rubens shows us that art can be theatrical and captivating – and that greatness doesn’t require isolation. An artist can live fully in the world and still shape it.
Joanna Piotrowska - Art Advisor & Marszand
Sir Peter Paul Rubens was a renowned Flemish Baroque painter and diplomat known for his dynamic, colorful, and sensual compositions referencing classical and Christian themes. Combining art and humanist scholarship, he produced altarpieces, portraits, mythological, and allegorical works, while running a large Antwerp workshop famed across Europe.
Born in Siegen to a family of Antwerp origin, Rubens was trained in Antwerp under Tobias Verhaecht, Adam van Noort, and Otto van Veen. He absorbed Italian influences after traveling to Italy, studying works by Titian, Veronese, Tintoretto, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio.
Upon return to Antwerp, Rubens married Isabella Brant, built his famous workshop and hired apprentices like Anthony van Dyck. His major works included altarpieces like 'The Raising of the Cross', portraits, and tapestry designs, securing him status in Southern Netherlands' artistic and political spheres.
Rubens served as a diplomat between Spain, England, and the Dutch Republic while continuing high-profile commissions such as the Marie de' Medici cycle for the French court. His knighthood and academic recognition reflected both his artistic and diplomatic prestige.
After the death of his first wife, Rubens married her niece Helena Fourment, who became a muse for his voluptuous depictions of female figures. He also produced personal landscapes and engaged in collaborative works, expanding his influence.
Flemish
Diplomat, Painter, Portrait, Tapestry Designer
Baroque, movement, color, sensuality, classical and Christian history, altarpieces, portraits, landscapes, history paintings, mythology, allegory
Recognized for his contributions as a court painter and diplomat.
Honored for his artistic and diplomatic services in England.
Acknowledged for his artistic excellence and scholarly stature.
