Rubens was one of the most powerful and prolific artists in the history of painting. He trained in Antwerp under Otto van Veen, and entered the Antwerp Guild in 1598. He spent many years in Italy (1600-1608), where he received important commissions for churches in Mantua and Rome: these works combined the influences of Michelangelo, Raphael and Caravaggio . When he returned to Antwerp, he was appointed court painter to Archduke Albert. He ran a flourishing studio, and his major religious and mythological compositions ensured him a brilliant career. He also executed important biblical and historical cycles. Over time, his palette lightened and his forms became more supple, and during the final phase of his career he painted a number of works covering an extensive range of subjects, including portraits and landscapes.
Works from the 50 in the Louvre's collection:
- The Village Fête
- Presentation to Henry IV of the Portrait of Marie de Medici
