Simon Gribelin, Peter Paul Rubens
The Union of the Crowns
1719
Scroll
Simon Gribelin, Peter Paul Rubens
The Union of the Crowns
1719
Physical Qualities
Engraving, Sheet: 325 x 458 mm. (12 13/16 x 18 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Garrett Collection
Object Number
1984.81.2148
Simon Gribelin’s ambitious, three-part engraving reproduces the allegorical ceiling that Peter Paul Rubens painted for the Banqueting House at Whitehall in London. The elaborate ceiling was commissioned by King Charles I in 1629, about the same time that he acquired the Museum’s splendid painting of Rinaldo and Armida by Anthony Van Dyck on view in the neighboring gallery. Composed of nine parts, the ceiling glorifies the King’s father, James I, and good government.
Signed: 1
Inscribed: In plate, at lower left: "Grav'd by Sim: Gribelin from the Painting of Sr. P. P. RUBENS on the Cieling [sic] / in the Banqueting:house at WHITE-HALL, in the Year 1720. CUM PRIVIL:DEGUNC:ANNAEREGIN: / This Cieling represents in proper and curious Emblems, the prosperous State of Great Britain in the Reign / of King James the Ist. His Concern for Religion, his Love of Arts and Sciences, the Birth of a Prince, the / Union of the two Kingdoms, and his Majesty's most Eminent Virtues Crown'd with Glory and Immortality."
Markings: CM: verso: Claghorn