P. P. Rubens, school of, 17th century
The Adoration of the Magi. Unsigned. Oil on copper. 29×23 cm. Baroque frame carved with shells.
The composition of the painting is based on several works by Peter Paul Rubens. For the larger part the painter followed the composition that is now in the Wallace Collection in London. This composition is widely known through numerous engravings. The motif of the Virgin presenting the Child occurs in several compostions, like e.g. a sketch also in the Wallace Collection.
Antwerp in the 17th century was crowded with good studios, that wanted to cash in on the success of Rubens.
A slight indication that the painting was made for export lies in the fact that it is painted on copper. Copper was much valued for export to e.g. Spain or South America, where paintings on panel could easily crack up in the heat. Copper was also easier to transport.
Provenance: Ambassador, count Eduard Reventlow. He was diplomatic representative and later Ambassador to England in London under and after the Second World War (the seller's grandfather), who bought the painting from Gustav Rasmussen, counsellor of the legation in London during the war, thereafter Secretary of State in 1945.
Please note: The item is subject to the Anti-Money Laundering Act. In the event of a hammer price of DKK 50,000 or more, including buyer’s premium, the buyer must submit a copy of a valid photo ID and proof of address in order to collect the item.
Paintings and drawings, 26 February 2013