32 Peter Paul Rubens Paintings

By / May 7, 2024
Peter Paul Rubens

Peter Paul Rubens was a renowned Flemish Baroque painter and draughtsman known for his extravagant style and extravagant themes. Born in 1577 in Siegen, Holy Roman Empire, Rubens spent most of his life in Antwerp, Belgium, where he served as a court painter for the Spanish Habsburg rulers. His paintings often depict bold colors, sensuous forms, and dramatic compositions, reflecting his mastery of the Baroque style. Rubens was also known for his technical skill in conveying emotion and movement in his works, which often featured mythological, religious, and historical subjects. He was one of the most prolific artists of his time, producing over 1,400 paintings during his career. Rubens died in 1640, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the greatest painters of the Baroque era.

1. The Three Graces

The Three Graces
  • Artwork Name: The Three Graces
  • Year: 1620 - 1623
  • Medium: Oil on Wood
  • Dimensions: 47 x 34 cm

"The Three Graces," a Baroque oil-on-wood artwork by Peter Paul Rubens, created between 1620 and 1623, depicts a mythological scene. Measuring 47 by 34 centimeters, the artwork illustrates the classical theme of the Three Graces, embodying beauty, charm, and grace. The elegant composition of the artwork, with its soft interplay of light and shadow, is a testament to Rubens' mastery of form and detail. This notable piece is housed in the Palazzo Pitti in Florence, Italy.

2. The Judgment of Paris

The Judgment of Paris

"The Judgment of Paris" is an oil on canvas painting created by Peter Paul Rubens around 1625. As a quintessential piece of the Baroque art movement, this mythological work measures 139 by 174 centimeters and is housed in the National Gallery, London. The artwork illustrates the legendary episode from Greek mythology wherein Paris, a Trojan prince, is tasked with adjudging the most beautiful among the goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. Rendered with Rubens' characteristic dynamism and rich color palette, the scene is imbued with the drama and emotional intensity emblematic of the Baroque style.

3. Andromeda

Andromeda
  • Artwork Name: Andromeda
  • Year: c.1638
  • Medium: Oil on Board
  • Dimensions: 189 x 94 cm

The artwork titled "Andromeda" by Peter Paul Rubens, created around 1638, is an oil on board painting that exemplifies the Baroque art movement. Measuring 189 x 94 cm, this mythological painting is housed in the Gemäldegalerie in Berlin, Germany. The artwork portrays the figure of Andromeda, shackled and awaiting rescue, capturing the dramatic and emotional intensity typical of the Baroque period. The composition vividly brings to life the mythological narrative with its dynamic poses and intricate play of light and shadow.

4. The Arrival of Marie de' Medici at Marseilles

The Arrival of Marie de' Medici at Marseilles

"The Arrival of Marie de' Medici at Marseilles," an oil on canvas masterpiece by Peter Paul Rubens, was created between 1622 and 1626. This grand painting, measuring 155 x 115 1/4 inches (394 x 293 cm), is housed in the Musée du Louvre in Paris. The artwork vividly depicts the historical moment when Marie de' Medici arrived at the French port of Marseilles. The composition is rich with dynamic figures and dramatic lighting, showcasing Rubens' skill in portraying lively motion and grandeur. Various mythological and allegorical elements, including nymphs and tritons, celebrate the Queen's arrival, adding to the majestic and ceremonious atmosphere of the scene.

5. Bacchus

Bacchus
  • Artwork Name: Bacchus
  • Year: 1638-40
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas, transferred from panel
  • Dimensions: 75 x 63 1/2 in. (191 x 161.3 cm)

"Bacchus" by Peter Paul Rubens, created between 1638 and 1640, is an oil on canvas masterpiece originally transferred from panel. Measuring 75 by 63 1/2 inches (191 by 161.3 cm), the artwork resides in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The artwork features a sumptuous and detailed depiction of Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, showcasing the exuberance and indulgence associated with Bacchanalian revelry. Bacchus is surrounded by companions, including a woman pouring wine and other figures partaking in the festivities, exemplifying Rubens' masterful use of vibrant color, dynamic composition, and expressive forms.

6. The Union Of Earth And Water

The Union Of Earth And Water

"The Union of Earth and Water," created circa 1618 by Peter Paul Rubens, is an oil on canvas masterpiece with dimensions of 87 1/2 by 71 inches (222.5 by 180.5 cm). The artwork depicts a harmonious confluence of mythological figures, symbolizing the union of terrestrial and aquatic realms. In the painting, a female figure representing Earth stands gracefully while her male counterpart, embodying Water, gazes upon her affectionately. The presence of flowing water, abundant fruits, and cherubs adds to the allegorical richness of the scene, emphasizing the fertility and prosperity arising from this elemental union.

7. The Abduction of the Daughters of Leucippus

The Abduction of the Daughters of Leucippus

The artwork, titled "The Abduction of the Daughters of Leucippus," was created by Peter Paul Rubens around 1618. This Baroque masterpiece, rendered in oil on canvas, measuring 224 by 210.5 cm, is a vivid mythological painting that currently resides in the Alte Pinakothek in Munich, Germany. The composition depicts a dramatic scene of abduction, characterized by the dynamic interplay of figures and the vibrant portrayal of motion, capturing both the tumultuous energy and rich emotional intensity emblematic of the Baroque era.

8. Virgin And Child Enthroned With Saints

Virgin And Child Enthroned With Saints

The artwork, "Virgin And Child Enthroned With Saints," was masterfully created by Peter Paul Rubens around the years 1627-8. This painting measures 80.2 x 55.5 cm (31 1/2 x 21 3/4 in.) and is housed in the Gemäldegalerie, Staatliche Museen, Berlin. The piece features the Virgin Mary and Christ Child enthroned and surrounded by an assembly of saints. Adopting Rubens' characteristically dynamic composition and vibrant color palette, the artwork captures a scene of divine reverence and interaction. Figures are adorned in richly detailed garments, imbued with movement, and positioned within a grandiose architectural setting, drawing the viewer into an atmosphere of sacred solemnity and bounteous grace.

9. The Garden of Love

The Garden of Love
  • Artwork Name: The Garden of Love
  • Year: c. 1630-32
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 78 x 111 3/8 in. (198 x 283 cm)

"The Garden of Love," an oil on canvas by Peter Paul Rubens, dating circa 1630-32, measures 78 x 111 3/8 inches (198 x 283 cm) and is housed in the Museo del Prado in Madrid. The artwork depicts an opulent gathering set within a lush, garden-like environment. Numerous figures, adorned in elaborate attire, engage in various interactions, surrounded by cherubs and architectural elements, exuding a sense of romantic enchantment and baroque elegance characteristic of Rubens' oeuvre.

10. Holy Family with St Elizabeth

Holy Family with St Elizabeth

The artwork "Holy Family with St Elizabeth," created circa 1615 by the renowned Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens, is an oil on canvas religious painting measuring 151 by 113 centimeters. Currently housed in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid, Spain, the piece depicts an intimate scene featuring the Virgin Mary, the infant Jesus, St. John the Baptist as a child, and St. Elizabeth. Rubens expertly renders the characters with dynamic compositions and rich color palettes characteristic of the Baroque movement, infusing the scene with a sense of divine tenderness and familial warmth.

11. Saints Gregory, Maurus, Papianus, and Domitilla

Saints Gregory, Maurus, Papianus, and Domitilla

The artwork, titled "Saints Gregory, Maurus, Papianus, and Domitilla," is a masterpiece created by the renowned artist Peter Paul Rubens in 1606. Executed on canvas, this painting measures 57 1/8 by 46 13/16 inches (200 by 128 centimeters) and is currently housed in the Gemaeldegalerie in Berlin. The artwork depicts an evocative scene featuring Saints Gregory, Maurus, Papianus, and Domitilla, rendered with dramatic lighting, rich colors, and the characteristic dynamism of Rubens' work. The figures are positioned in a classical architectural setting, with an arch framing a picturesque background, enhancing the composition's depth and narrative.

12. Self-portrait with Isabella Brant

Self-portrait with Isabella Brant

The artwork named "Self-portrait with Isabella Brant" was created by the artist Peter Paul Rubens circa 1610. The medium used is oil on canvas, and the dimensions of the artwork are 174 x 132 cm. This piece is currently housed in the Alte Pinakothek museum in Munich. The artwork depicts a self-portrait of Rubens alongside his first wife, Isabella Brant, both adorned in opulent attire and set against a rich, natural background, indicative of the Baroque style. The couple is depicted in an intimate, yet formal pose, highlighting both the artist's skill in realism and his ability to convey personal emotion through portraiture.

13. The Stone Carters

The Stone Carters
  • Artwork Name: The Stone Carters
  • Year: c.1620
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 86 x 127 cm

"The Stone Carters," created by Peter Paul Rubens around 1620, is an oil on canvas painting belonging to the Baroque art movement. The artwork, measuring 86 x 127 cm, is classified within the landscape genre and is currently housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia. In the artwork, Rubens masterfully captures a dense woodland scene bathed in a dusky light, where laborers with a cart are depicted engaging with the rugged terrain. The interplay of shadow and light, combined with the dynamic composition and rich detailing, exemplifies the dramatic and emotive characteristics of Baroque painting.

14. Dance of the Villagers

Dance of the Villagers

"Old Peasant Dance," crafted by Peter Paul Rubens around 1636, is a genre painting embodying the Baroque movement. Executed in oil on board and measuring 73 x 106 cm, the artwork is currently housed in the Museo del Prado in Madrid. The artwork captures an animated rural scene where villagers are engaged in a lively dance, set against a backdrop of lush greenery and a rustic edifice, enmeshing the viewer in the exuberance and life of the period.

15. Helene Fourment and Her Children, Claire-Jeanne and Francois

Helene Fourment and Her Children, Claire-Jeanne and Francois

The artwork "Helene Fourment and Her Children, Claire-Jeanne and Francois" by Peter Paul Rubens, created circa 1636-37, is an oil painting on wood measuring 45 1/4 x 33 1/2 inches (115 x 85 cm) and is currently housed in the Musée du Louvre, Paris. The painting depicts a serene domestic scene featuring Helene Fourment, elegantly dressed, seated and holding her children, Claire-Jeanne and Francois. Rubens' masterful brushwork captures the tender maternal bond and the affectionate interaction between the figures, set against a soft, warm-toned background.

16. Portrait of Susanna Fourment

Portrait of Susanna Fourment

"Portrait of Susanna Fourment," created by Peter Paul Rubens between circa 1622-1625, is an exquisite oil on panel painting housed in The National Gallery, London. Measuring 31 1/16 x 21 1/4 inches (79 x 54 cm), the artwork features a poised and elegantly dressed young woman set against a subtly rendered backdrop. The subject is depicted with delicate attention to detail, particularly in the textures of her attire, the ornate feathered hat, and the intricate play of light and shadow on her skin, capturing both the grace and dignity of the sitter.

17. Return of the Peasants from the Fields

Return of the Peasants from the Fields

"Return of the Peasants from the Fields," created by Peter Paul Rubens circa 1632-34, is an exquisite oil on panel painting measuring 47 5/8 by 76 3/8 inches (121 by 194 cm). This masterpiece, currently housed in the Pitti Palace in Florence, captures a vivid rural scene, depicting peasants returning from their day's labor in the fields. The artwork showcases Rubens' command of landscape and genre painting, highlighting the idyllic yet industrious life of the countryside through dynamic composition, vibrant details, and a rich interplay of light and shadow.

18. The Little Fur (Helen Fourment, the Second Wife to the Artist)

The Little Fur (Helen Fourment, the Second Wife to the Artist)

The artwork titled "The Little Fur (Helen Fourment, the Second Wife to the Artist)", created by Peter Paul Rubens around 1638, is an oil painting on an oak panel measuring 176 by 83 cm. The painting is housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, Austria. The artwork features a full-length depiction of a woman, identified as Helen Fourment, wrapped in a luxurious fur garment, with an expressive pose and a soft, naturalistic rendering of her form. The muted background and rich textures highlight Rubens' masterful use of light and shadow, emphasizing the subject's elegance and the intimate, personal connection with the artist.

19. Saint Gregory with Saints Domitilla, Maurus, and Papianus

Saint Gregory with Saints Domitilla, Maurus, and Papianus

The artwork titled "Saint Gregory with Saints Domitilla, Maurus, and Papianus," created by Peter Paul Rubens circa 1606-1607, is an oil on canvas masterpiece exemplifying the Baroque art movement. Spanning an impressive 477 by 288 centimeters, this religious painting depicts a reverential scene central to Christian narrative. The grandeur of the composition is characteristic of Rubens’ dramatic style, with intricate detailing and dynamic expressions that convey profound spiritual significance. Currently housed in a private collection, the artwork remains a significant representation of Rubens' contribution to Baroque religious iconography.

20. Self-portrait

Self-portrait
  • Artwork Name: Self-portrait
  • Year: c.1620
  • Medium: Oil on Panel
  • Dimensions: 41 x 34 cm

The artwork is a self-portrait created by the distinguished Baroque artist, Peter Paul Rubens, circa 1620. Executed in oil on panel, the painting measures 41 by 34 centimeters and is currently housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, Austria. The piece exemplifies the Baroque movement's characteristic use of dramatic lighting and vivid detail. Rubens' self-portrait reveals a contemplative expression, masterfully rendered with intricate brushwork that captures the texture of his hair and beard, as well as the subtle play of light and shadow on his face, set against a warm, dynamic background.

21. St. Cecilia

St. Cecilia
  • Artwork Name: St. Cecilia
  • Year: 1639 - 1640
  • Medium: Oil on Panel
  • Dimensions: 177 x 139 cm

The artwork, titled "St. Cecilia," is a religious painting created by Peter Paul Rubens between 1639 and 1640, using oil on panel. It belongs to the Baroque art movement and measures 177 by 139 centimeters. The artwork is currently housed in the Gemaeldegalerie in Berlin. The painting portrays St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music, in a contemplative and serene posture surrounded by cherubs. The intricate details, dramatic contrasts, and dynamic composition are characteristic of Rubens' masterful Baroque technique, rendering a deeply spiritual and visually captivating scene.

22. St. Sebastian

St. Sebastian
  • Artwork Name: St. Sebastian
  • Year: c.1614
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 200 x 120 cm

"St. Sebastian," an oil on canvas work created circa 1614 by Peter Paul Rubens, exemplifies the Baroque movement with its vivid portrayal and dynamic composition. Measuring 200 by 120 centimeters, the artwork is a religious painting that depicts the martyrdom of St. Sebastian, a common subject in Christian art. The figure of St. Sebastian is tied to a tree, pierced by arrows, in a dramatic and emotionally charged scene rendered with Rubens’ characteristic mastery of light and shadow. This painting is currently housed in the Gemäldegalerie in Berlin, Germany.

23. The Descent from the Cross

The Descent from the Cross

"The Descent from the Cross," created by Peter Paul Rubens between 1611 and 1614, is an esteemed oil on panel work representing the Baroque art movement. The artwork, housed in the Cathedral of Antwerp, measures 420 by 310 cm and vividly depicts a somber religious scene. In this significant piece, Rubens masterfully portrays the emotional moment when Christ's body is removed from the cross, surrounded by mournful figures. The dramatic use of light and shadow, coupled with the intense emotional expressions, embodies the Baroque era's characteristic dynamism and emotional depth.

24. The Elevation of the Cross

The Elevation of the Cross

"The Elevation of the Cross," created in 1610 by Peter Paul Rubens, is an oil painting that embodies the Baroque art movement. This large-scale artwork, measuring 460 x 640 cm, depicts a dramatic and emotional scene surrounding the crucifixion, showcasing a menagerie of figures in dynamic poses, expressing intense and varied emotions. The central panel highlights the strenuous effort of muscular men raising the cross with Christ's body, illustrating Rubens' mastery in capturing movement and pathos. The artwork, currently housed in a private collection within the Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp, Belgium, is regarded both as a powerful religious statement and an exemplar of Baroque artistic principles, blending intricate details with grand, expressive gestures.

25. The Lamentation

The Lamentation
  • Artwork Name: The Lamentation
  • Year: c.1606
  • Medium: oil,copper
  • Dimensions: 28 x 24 cm

"The Lamentation," crafted by Peter Paul Rubens circa 1606, is an exquisite Baroque religious painting rendered in oil on copper. Measuring 28 by 24 centimeters, the artwork is housed in the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens in Jacksonville, Florida. The composition poignantly depicts the somber moment following the crucifixion, featuring a group of mourners grieving over the lifeless body of Christ. Rubens employs dramatic lighting and rich, emotive expressions to convey the profound sorrow and lamentation of this sacred event.

26. Allegory on the blessings of peace

Allegory on the blessings of peace

"Allegory on the blessings of peace," an allegorical painting by Peter Paul Rubens, was created between 1629 and 1630 using oil on canvas. This Baroque piece, measuring 204 by 298 cm, is housed in the National Gallery in London. The artwork depicts various classical and mythological figures, celebrating the prosperity and tranquility brought about by peace. Through rich and dynamic compositions, Rubens emphasizes the harmony, abundance, and felicity that peace can bring, employing a vivid and opulent color palette characteristic of the Baroque movement.

27. Daniel in the Lion's Den

Daniel in the Lion's Den

"Daniel in the Lion's Den," created circa 1615 by Peter Paul Rubens, is an exemplary oil painting in the Baroque art movement. This religious painting, measuring 224.3 x 330.4 cm, is housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The artwork vividly portrays the biblical story of Daniel, depicting him in a moment of divine intervention surrounded by a pride of lions. Rubens employs dramatic chiaroscuro, rich textures, and dynamic composition to convey the intensity and emotional gravity of the scene, characteristic of the Baroque style.

28. Portrait of Isabella Brant

Portrait of Isabella Brant

"Portrait of Isabella Brant," created by the renowned artist Peter Paul Rubens between 1625 and 1626, is a captivating oil on panel artwork belonging to the Baroque art movement. The portrait, measuring 86 x 62 cm, is housed in the esteemed Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. The artwork portrays Isabella Brant, adorned in luxurious attire, with a gentle and composed demeanor, showcasing Rubens' masterful use of rich colors and intricate details that celebrate the opulence and elegance characteristic of the Baroque era.

29. Rubens, his wife Helena Fourment, and their son Peter Paul

Rubens, his wife Helena Fourment, and their son Peter Paul

The artwork titled "Rubens, his wife Helena Fourment, and their son Peter Paul," created around 1639 by the artist Peter Paul Rubens, is an oil on wood painting characteristic of the Baroque movement. Measuring 203.8 by 158.1 cm, this self-portrait genre piece is housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The artwork depicts Rubens with his second wife, Helena Fourment, and their young son, Peter Paul. The scene captures a moment of familial affection and is characterized by the artist's masterful use of color, texture, and composition, which highlights the intimate bond shared among the subjects against a lush, richly detailed backdrop.

30. The Four Evangelists

The Four Evangelists

"The Four Evangelists," an exemplar of Baroque religious painting by Peter Paul Rubens, was created circa 1614 using oil on canvas. This artwork, measuring 224 by 270 centimeters, is housed in Schloss Sanssouci, Berlin. Depicting the four Evangelists, each symbolized by their traditional attributes, the artwork showcases the dramatic intensity and rich texture characteristic of the Baroque movement. The dynamic composition, vibrant use of color, and masterful play of light and shadow underscore Rubens' eminent skill and deep religious devotion.

31. The Kermesse

The Kermesse
  • Artwork Name: The Kermesse
  • Year: 1635 - 1638
  • Medium: Oil on Wood
  • Dimensions: 149 x 261 cm

"The Kermesse" by Peter Paul Rubens, created between 1635 and 1638, is an oil on wood genre painting representative of the Baroque movement. Measuring 149 x 261 cm, it is housed in the Louvre in Paris, France. The artwork captures a lively village festival, teeming with animated figures engaged in dancing, feasting, and social merriment, set against a lush, detailed landscape. The dynamic scene exudes the exuberance and vitality characteristic of Rubens' vibrant style, exemplifying the Baroque era's emphasis on movement, color, and drama.

32. Self-portrait with Justus Lipsius, Philip Rubens, and Jan Wowerius, known as The Four Philosophers

Self-portrait with Justus Lipsius, Philip Rubens, and Jan Wowerius, known as The Four Philosophers

"Self-portrait with Justus Lipsius, Philip Rubens, and Jan Wowerius, known as The Four Philosophers," created by Peter Paul Rubens around 1611-12, is an oil on panel artwork housed in Pitti, Florence. Measuring 167 by 143 cm, this piece is associated with the Expressionism movement, though it depicts a genre more accurately aligned with a cityscape. The artwork showcases four learned men, including Rubens himself, engaged in a moment of intellectual discourse. They are seated around a table laden with books and documents, set against a richly colored backdrop with a classical bust mounted on a wall, which evokes a sense of scholarly reverence and deep contemplation.

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