EUROPEAN SCHOOL (MID-LATE 18TH CENTURY), AFTER SIR PETER PAUL RUBENS (1577-1640)
Self-Portrait
the original painted in 1623
oil on canvas laid on board
74 x 61 cm. (29 1/8 x 24 in.)

Sir Peter Paul Rubens, renowned for his large, dynamic compositions, and mastery of light and color. His work is characterised by vibrant movement, sensuality, and dramatic intensity, which set him apart as one of the most important figures of the Baroque period.

Provenance
Rev Isaac Mills, Rector of Highclare, Hampshire
Gifted to his son, William Milles, brother of Jeremiah Milles (President of the Society of Antiquaries and Dean of Exeter between 1762 and 1784), thence by family decent.

The overall style and type displayed a well-observed copy of the original which is currently held by the National Gallery of Austrailia, Kamberri/Canberra, purchased 1983. The treatment of light and the overall handling reveals an advanced understanding of Rubens marsterly handling of portraiture.

Rev. Isaac Milles, who served as the rector of Highclere in Hampshire for 39 years was deeply committed to his parish, education, and charitable works, and during his tenure, he developed a close relationship with Sir Robert Sawyer, the then-owner of Highclere. Sawyer was the Attorney General to Charles II and James II.