The Corpus Rubenianum
A catalogue raisonné compiles all the works of a visual artist or a specific segment of their oeuvre. This reference work provides researchers with a crucial point of reference for dating and authenticating artworks.
Corpus Rubenianum Ludwig Burchard
The oeuvre of Peter Paul Rubens, however, is too extensive and complex for a single catalogue raisonné to be compiled by one researcher in a few years. His work encompasses approximately 2,500 compositions and 10,000 artworks, ranging from paintings to tapestry designs and festive decorations. The Centrum Rubenianum coordinates the publication of the Corpus Rubenianum Ludwig Burchard, a series of over 40 books that provide a comprehensive overview of Rubens' oeuvre. This monumental project, one of the most ambitious in art history, reflects both the scale and complexity of Rubens' work. The series is based on the research material of Ludwig Burchard, widely recognized as the authority in this field, and is published by Brepols. Each volume is written by a prominent specialist within Burchard's research tradition.
KMSKA researchers contribute
As part of the Rubens Research Project, several researchers from the KMSKA have published volumes within the series on specific aspects of Rubens' work:
- Christine Van Mulders examined the collaboration between Rubens and Jan Brueghel I and II (XXVII (1). Works in Collaboration: Jan Brueghel I & II, 2016).
- Koen Bulckens focused on Rubens' depiction of the life of Christ (V (2). The Life of Christ before the Passion: the Ministry of Christ, 2017).
- Valérie Herremans studied Rubens' architectural (altar) sculptures (XXII (4). Architecture and Sculpture: Architectural Sculpture, 2019).
- Nico Van Hout analyzed Rubens' use of study heads and tronies in his studio practice, resulting in two volumes (XX (2). Study Heads, 2020).
Van Hout's research formed the basis for the exhibition Turning Heads in 2023. Together with Koen Bulckens, he placed Rubens' study heads in a broader context. The exhibition showcased how the fascination with the human face in the 16th century led to independent depictions of anonymous figures, such as those by Pieter Bruegel I. Through themes like dramatic light effects and costuming, Turning Heads illustrated a lineage of tronies that extended through Johannes Vermeer, Michaelina Wautier, and Michael Sweerts to artists in the 18th century.
