The exhibition shows how, in the early years of his career, Rubens laid the foundations for his later success. Rubens left Antwerp for Italy in 1600 to study the art of Antiquity and the Renaissance as well as the work of his contemporaries. He steadily expanded his network of influential connections: he became court painter to the Duke of Mantua, portrayed members of the most influential families in Genoa and successfully competed with other artists. 

After his return to Antwerp, Rubens set up a high-powered studio, which, thanks to an efficient division of labour, was able to produce large numbers of quality paintings in comparatively little time. The artist’s signature bold visual language became his trademark. The prominent placement of his works in churches and distinguished collections and the wide dissemination through the medium of print make Rubens a sought-after brand. 

The exhibition shows some ninety paintings and works on paper from the museum’s own holdings as well as important loans from international museums and collections. It is curated by Prof. Dr. Nils Büttner and Dr. Sandra-Kristin Diefenthaler. The exhibition is realized in cooperation with the Rubenianum in Antwerp and the Academy of Fine Arts.