Early Rubens

This book explores the artistic career of Peter Paul Rubens, highlighting his journey from Belgium to Italy, his return to Belgium, and his rise to fame through commercial success. It examines how Rubens established a "brand" and promoted himself, creating multiple versions of successful paintings, collaborating with other artists, and establishing a studio and workshop with students and assistants. The book also explores the influence of Italy on Rubens' work and the narrative aspect of his paintings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 04 February 2019
Publisher: Prestel

In the early 17th century, a remarkable artist named Peter Paul Rubens embarked on a journey from his hometown of Antwerp to Italy, driven by a profound desire to immerse himself in the rich artistic heritage of that country. After spending eight years in Italy, Rubens returned to Belgium, where he quickly established himself as one of the foremost painters in Western Europe. This captivating book delves into the artistic journey of Rubens from 1609 to 1621, exploring his creative process and the strategies he employed to achieve fame and commercial success.

Rubens was acutely aware of the possibilities for commercial success and recognized the importance of establishing a distinct "brand" that would distinguish him from his contemporaries. He embarked on a mission to promote himself and his work, employing various tactics to capture the attention of art enthusiasts and collectors. One of the key strategies he employed was the creation of multiple versions of paintings with subjects that had proven to be successful. By producing multiple versions of a particular painting, Rubens increased the chances of it finding a buyer and generating revenue. He also sought collaborators to create more ambitious works than he could have done alone. This collaboration allowed him to tap into the expertise and skills of other artists, resulting in masterpieces that showcased the combined talents of Rubens and his collaborators.

In addition to his commercial endeavors, Rubens was committed to nurturing the next generation of artists. He established a studio and workshop, where he welcomed numerous students and assistants. Among the most famous of these was Anthony van Dyck, a renowned painter who frequently collaborated with Rubens. Through their work together, van Dyck contributed to the development of Rubens's artistic style and helped him achieve greater artistic heights.

Rubens's paintings, drawings, and prints serve as a testament to his artistic prowess and his desire for commercial success. His works are characterized by their vibrant colors, intricate details, and powerful narratives. They often depicted scenes from classical mythology, biblical stories, and historical events, capturing the essence of human emotion and the beauty of the natural world. Rubens's paintings were highly sought after by wealthy patrons and aristocrats, who appreciated his ability to capture the essence of their personalities and their aspirations.

This book offers a refreshing look at the most fruitful phase of Rubens's career, providing new insights into his creative process, his influences, and his strategies for achieving fame and commercial success. It explores the impact of Italy on Rubens's artistic style, the narrative aspect of his paintings, and how he managed commissions from famous patrons. Filled with stunning images and informative essays, this book is a valuable resource for art enthusiasts, students, and scholars alike.

In conclusion, Peter Paul Rubens's journey from Antwerp to Italy and his subsequent rise to fame in Belgium is a testament to his artistic talent, his determination, and his willingness to embrace the possibilities of commercial success. Through his multiple versions of paintings, collaborations, and promotion, Rubens established himself as one of the foremost painters of his time, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence artists to this day.

Weight: 1794g
Dimension: 252 x 292 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783791358444