Portraits (1630s)

Important stylistic changes in Rubens's work after his long stay in Madrid and London between 1628 and 1630 can be seen in the portraits he painted during the last ten years of his life. His renewed interest in Titian is first noticeable in his changing technique, particularly in the soft flowing tonality and freer touch. But he also clearly adopts Titian's schemes for portraiture, especially when painting aristocrats or political figures. Also from the 1630s date the most intimate portraits Rubens ever painted, notably the fine series of members of his own family. The many pictures of his second wife, Helena Fourment - whom he married in 1630 - either alone or with himself or one or more of their children, are particularly moving.