The exhibition presents a selection of about 100 Flemish Baroque drawings from the Kupferstichkabinett (Museum of Prints and Drawings) collection. It features outstanding works on paper by Peter Paul Rubens, Jacob Jordaens and Anton van Dyck. These are enhanced with drawings by lesser-known masters, including Lucas van Uden, Pieter de Jode and Abraham van Diepenbeeck.

The epoch between 1580 and 1660 was shaped not only by continuous conflicts between the European powers but also by formative shifts in religious practice and the emergence of a global trade network. During this era of crisis, in the late 16th century, Antwerp developed into one of the most important European centres of trade and a hotspot of art production.

The works on paper exhibited were each made in preparation for intended artworks. Alongside initial ideas captured in sketches, the exhibition also showcases powerful figure studies, colourful tapestry designs, and preliminary drawings for paintings. The drawings provide direct insights into the creative process and illustrate an unexpected variety of Flemish art.

A special exhibition of the Kupferstichkabinett – Staatliche Museen zu Berlin