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Susanna and the Elders
Artist
Christoffel Jegher
(Flemish, 1596-1652)
Artist
After Peter Paul Rubens
(Flemish; 1577-1640)
Dateca. 1632-1636
Mediumwoodcut
Dimensions17 1/2 × 22 7/8 in. (44.5 × 58.1 cm)
Classification(s)
- PRINTS
Credit LineGift of Richard P. Brown
Terms
- Biblical stories
Object numberM.2017.15
DescriptionJegher executed twelve prints after Rubens in a remarkably close association between the two: Rubens apparently drew his designs directly on the woodblocks, Jegher cut the blocks, and Rubens corrected trial proofs until both artists were satisfied. The woodcut on view relates to a Rubens drawing in the Louvre (Lugt 1132); no comparable painting is known, though the perspective view of the garden is a quote from the Villa Borghese painting in Rome (1608-09) and the rectangular format with balustrade and fountain originates in the Academia de San Fernando painting in Madrid (c. 1610). The subject is from the Book of Daniel, which describes the attempted seduction, refusal, and eventual triumph of Susanna over Elders of the community. In Hebrew, Susanna means lily, a symbol of purity.Catalogue raisonnéHollstein 1, first state of two, before removal of Rubens' privilege.
InscribedSigned in the wood block "P. P. Rub. Delin. & exc. CVM PRIVILEGIIS." and "Christoffel Iegher Sc." lower centerOn View
Not on viewExhibitions