Sir Peter Paul Rubens, Head of One of Three Kings: Melchoir, the Assyrian King, c. 1618, oil on panel transferred to canvas, Chester Dale Collection, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Title: Head of One of Three Kings; Melchoir, the Assyrian King, c. 1618
Sir Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640)
Flemish artist Sir Peter Paul Rubens was one of the stars of the 17th century art world, among his patrons the leading dynasties of Europe. During his career, Rubens painted portraits of Phillip IV of Spain, Louis XIII of France, among others, immortalizing these monarchs in paint. However, in Melchoir, the Assyrian King above, Rubens depicts a Biblical king, one of the three magi who brought precious gifts to honor the Christ Child.
Shown in profile, Melchoir, holds an ornate golden vessel, lifting up the cover to reveal frankincense, intent on his mission to celebrate the miraculous birth. Rubens, a master of color and brushstroke, almost sculpts the face of Melchoir in layers of flesh tones, emphasizing the prominent nose. While the red and pink of the robe dominate the work, reflecting the richness of Melchoir’s apparel.
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