The Stage of Mercury

Currently not on view

The Stage of Mercury

c. 1641

Theodor van Thulden (Flemish, 1606–1669) After a design by Peter Paul Rubens (Flemish (active Italy, Antwerp, and England), 1577–1640)

Beginning in the Renaissance, artists often created a range of ephemeral architecture made of paper and papier-mâché to celebrate the arrival of visiting dignitaries. Mock facades and decorative stage sets were placed over existing buildings to suggest a fantasy vision of the city and were adorned with antique capitals and allegorical sculptures. Van Thulden collaborated with the painter Peter Paul Rubens on the temporary decorations for the city of Antwerp to celebrate the triumphal entry of the Cardinal Ferdinand of Spain (1609-1641) in April 1635.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

The Stage of Mercury
From Pompa Introitus Ferdinandi (Entry Ceremonies of Cardinal Ferdinand)

Date:

c. 1641

Artists:

Theodor van Thulden (Flemish, 1606–1669) After a design by Peter Paul Rubens (Flemish (active Italy, Antwerp, and England), 1577–1640)

Medium:

Etching

Dimensions:

Plate: 16 3/16 x 19 1/2 inches (41.1 x 49.6 cm) Sheet: 16 7/16 x 19 9/16 inches (41.8 x 49.7 cm)

Classification:

Prints

Credit Line:

The Muriel and Philip Berman Gift, acquired from the John S. Phillips bequest of 1876 to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, with funds contributed by Muriel and Philip Berman, gifts (by exchange) of Lisa Norris Elkins, Bryant W. Langston, Samuel S. White 3rd and Vera White, with additional funds contributed by John Howard McFadden, Jr., Thomas Skelton Harrison, and the Philip H. and A.S.W. Rosenbach Foundation, 1985

Accession Number:

1985-52-16727

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Currently not on view