Rubens, Peter Paul [Adoration of the Magi]

Peter Paul Rubens. [Adoration of the Magi].

Dated 1620 but this is a German reproductive print of a later date in the late 17th century or 18th. 22 3/4 x 17 1/2 (platemarks) plus wide margins. Engraving on laid paper by Lucas Vorsterman. Strong strike.

Reproductive prints are not "reproductions," rather, they are restrikes which have to be evaluated on a variety of standards. Some exist in many copies over a long time, but others while printed later are the only surviving images by some of the Old Masters.

Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) was one of the great painters of Renaissance religious art. Lucas Emil Vorsterman (1595-1675) practiced engraving in Envers (Flemish School) and worked closely with Rubens and his work. The engravings circulated throughout Europe and those of this popular and familiar scene were produced in large quantities. So while the price is "reasonable," the quality and history are superb and important.