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Jan van Malderen
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The way Rubens brought his models to life was only equalled in Flemish painting by Anthony van Dyck. This portrait of the Bishop of Antwerp, Jan van Malderen (1563–1633), which dates from Van Dyck’s ‘second Antwerp period’ (1627–32), is an outstanding example.
The bishop seems to have just closed his book to look at something situated outside the picture plane. Despite being posed, the portrait has the feel of a snapshot. The brushwork is very fluid and suggestive, further emphasizing the scene’s informal character. Several versions of the portrait have been identified, but this one is undoubtedly the highest in quality. It is likely to be the original, which was previously believed to have been lost.
Long-term loan, private collection, Antwerp
Anthony van Dyck (1599–1641)
Jan van Malderen
Oil on canvas