Klaas Muller, a Belgian art dealer, stumbled upon a rare find: a work by the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens. Three years ago, he bought a study featuring two heads for under €100,000 at an online auction. The auction house was relatively unknown, which kept the price down.
Initially, Muller wasn’t even sure if it was a true Rubens. “It seemed very Rubens-esque,” he said, but it felt like a risk. His passion for Rubens is strong. “I have a collection of books about him at home,” he shared. When the painting arrived, it looked dirty, but the varnish had preserved it well. His doubts faded after it was examined by art historian Ben van Beneden, who confirmed its impressive craftsmanship.
“This study has a lifelike quality”, van Beneden remarked. The old man’s head in the study appears in several of Rubens’ notable works. For instance, in “The Raising of the Cross,” the figure is shown as Saint Amandus. He also makes a cameo as King Melchior in “The Adoration of the Magi.”
Rubens often used different faces for his paintings, inspired by Italian artists of his time. Some experts believe that this specific model might be one he had used in earlier works. Interestingly, the woman hidden in the beard was painted first, hinting at Rubens’ inventive approach.
As of late, studies by Rubens have commanded prices from £500,000 to £1 million at auctions. Art enthusiasts and collectors on social media reacted with excitement over Muller’s discovery, showcasing the ongoing fascination with Rubens. The painting will soon be showcased at the Brafa art fair in Brussels, where Muller hopes it can find a long-term home in a museum.
For more about Rubens and his incredible works, check out The Adoration of the Magi at the Museo del Prado and The Tribute Money at the Legion of Honour.
