Peter Paul Rubens c. 18th century

Editor: This is William Woollett's engraving of Peter Paul Rubens, dating to around the late 18th century. I find the framing so interesting, like he's peering out a window. What do you make of it? Curator: It's like a borrowed gaze, isn't it? Woollett, as an engraver, is interpreting Van Dyck's portrait of Rubens. It's Rubens seen through *another* artist's eyes, a layering of perspectives across time. Editor: So it's not just a copy? Curator: Oh, heavens no! Woollett is adding his own artistry through the engraving process, deciding which lines to emphasize, what textures to create. It's a translation, a loving homage. Editor: I never thought about it that way. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure! It's all about seeing the conversations between artists, isn't it?