The apotheosis of James I in an oval at center, friezes with putti and garlands on either side
Medium
Engraving
Dimensions
Sheet (Trimmed): 12 9/16 × 18 1/4 in. (31.9 × 46.4 cm)
Classification
Prints
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Elisha Whittelsey Collection, The Elisha Whittelsey Fund, 1951
Accession Number
51.501.7615
Art Historical Context
At the heart of this striking 1720 engraving lies the apotheosis—or divine glorification—of King I of England, Scotland, and Ireland (. 1603–1625), depicted in a radiant oval centerpiece. Flanking it are ornate friezes alive with playful putti (cherubic figures) and flowing garlands, evoking triumph and eternal reverence. Created by master engraver Simon Grib II after a design by the Baroque genius Peter Paul Rubens, this transforms a royal portrait into a celestial homage, celebrating James I's legacy long after his death. Rubens, famed for his dynamic compositions and lush exuberance, likel...
About the Artist
James I, King of England, Scotland and Ireland|Peter Paul Rubens|Simon Gribelin II (British|Netherlandish) · 1566 |1571 –1625 |1645
British, Edinburgh 1566–1625 Theobalds|Netherlandish, Antwerp, 1571– after 1635 Antwerp