Rubens's library

150 well-preserved publications with book illustrations and title pages by Rubens, each of which illustrates Rubens's way of thinking and living. 

Rubens created illustrations and title pages for 76 books. A private collector spent the last 30 years following his passion and amassing this collection. The construction of a new library in the place where Rubens once kept his books prompted him to finally sell his unique collection to the Rubenshuis. It also comprises several books from the 16th and 17th centuries that helped influence Rubens's style. In some instances, he may even have owned a copy of some of them.  

The collection comprises 150 beautifully-preserved publications, many of which are still in the original parchment and leather bindings. They include a six-volume Bible and books on Roman coins, as well as works on modern sciences and heavy tomes on dietetics. All equally authentic. As if they were just plucked from the shelves of Rubens's library. Each illustrates his thinking and views on life in their own way. 

Each book is extremely valuable in its own right but taken together, they are priceless. In fact, many of the centuries-old books are so rare that they only come on the market occasionally. Although their value mainly lies in the impetus they provide for further research into the innovative insights of the 'pictor doctus' and how his (book) knowledge influenced his illustrations.