Landscape with Tower 1638

Peter Paul Rubens painted Landscape with Tower on a small wood panel, using oil paints, sometime in the early 17th century. Although seemingly traditional, landscape painting was relatively new at this time. Before this, landscapes were merely backdrops for other subjects. Rubens's direct engagement with nature, capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere, marked a shift. Rubens applies thin layers of pigment, alla prima, and achieves luminosity through the juxtaposition of contrasting hues. The panel support also plays a crucial role in the painting's material presence. The smooth surface allows for the fluid brushwork and delicate blending of tones. The wood grain subtly visible beneath the paint adds a sense of warmth and texture. In considering the materials and the making of Landscape with Tower, we gain insight into Rubens's artistic practice and the cultural values of his time, questioning our understanding of the relationship between fine art and the natural world.