Peter Paul Rubens met zijn eerste vrouw Isabella Brant 1609 - 1690

This drawing in black chalk and sanguine, attributed to an anonymous artist, captures Peter Paul Rubens with his first wife, Isabella Brant. The couple's intertwined hands are central, drawing our eye to their union. Notice how the artist uses contrasting chalk and sanguine to define form and texture, giving depth to their garments and faces. Rubens stands, looking confidently out at us, while Isabella sits, her gaze more demure. This contrast in posture might suggest traditional gender roles, yet their linked hands speak of equality and mutual affection. The artist masterfully uses the medium to convey a sense of intimacy and formality, reflecting both personal connection and the social status of the sitters. The composition as a whole, the figures' placement in relation to each other, and the landscape behind them all contribute to the narrative. These elements underscore the interplay between public image and private emotion.