Painter
Born: Siegen, Nassau
28-06-1577

Died: Antwerpen
30-04-1640

Rubens was a many-sided humanist, familiar with classical science and the art of diplomacy. He spoke six languages.

His major merit laid in the animated, exuberantly sensuous aspects of baroque painting.

That made him one of the most important artists in Flanders. His influence on younger artists as a Van Dyck and a Jordaens was very profound. Already during his life Rubens got international recognition and name. This was made possible through the spreading of his work by means of the illustrated art.

Shortly after his return from Italy he hired engravers to reproduce his work with a burin or an etching-needle. Rubens’ work is so voluminous that it was impossible to be painted by one person. His voluminous production was in fact made by a great number of students and co-workers. Rubens’ contribution was focused on the concept and the construction of the work and of course the final finishing touch.