Rubens and van Dyck, a Double Portrait
1630
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1630
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This engraving shows two serious men in the front—one with a beard and ruffled collar, the other clean-shaven and wearing a chain necklace. Behind them, a woman in fancy dress holds a scroll, while a winged boy and a cherub play among swirling vines, flowers, and scrollwork. The background is packed with intricate patterns, like crowns, feathers, and curling ribbons. The two men are likely the artists Peter Paul Rubens and Anthony van Dyck, framed as if they’re royalty or gods. The tiny Latin text at the bottom is a poetic flex, praising their talent. Next, look up engraving to see how artists like Pontius carved these sharp details into metal.
