The Consecration of a Bishop

Pieter Claesz Soutman, after Sir Peter Paul Rubens

Associated Names
Pieter Claesz Soutman

Artist, Dutch, 1580 - 1657

Pieter Claesz Soutman

Publisher, Dutch, 1580 - 1657

Sir Peter Paul Rubens

Artist After, Flemish, 1577 - 1640

This image depicts a religious ceremony. In the scene, a group of figures surrounds a central figure seated on a throne. The central figure appears dignified and authoritative, receiving an act that seems to be a consecration or crowning ceremony from two bishops holding a mitre above their head. The figures are wearing detailed ecclesiastical attire, pointing to the ceremony's significance. The background features grand architectural elements and a crowd of spectators. Overhead, a dove emits rays of light, suggesting a divine presence or blessing. The drawing's texture and detail emphasize the grand and solemn nature of this ecclesiastical event.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching with engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 32 x 21 cm (12 5/8 x 8 1/4 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2008.91.4

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 11, State ii/ii


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Christopher Mendez, London); purchased 2008 by NGA.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1949

  • Hollstein, F.W.H. et al. Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings and woodcuts, ca. 1450-1700. Vols. I-XV, XVIII, XIX. Amsterdam, no. 11 ii/ii

Inscriptions

lower center: P P Rubens Invent. cum privel. / P. Soutman fecit et excudit

Wikidata ID

Q76439143

You may be interested in

Loading Results