Three Female Witnesses
Artist: Peter Paul Rubens (Belgian, 1577 - 1640)
Original Dimensions: 42 3/8" x 16 1/8"
Location: National Gallery of Art, London
About Artwork: (1611-12) "This is an oil sketch Rubens made in preparation for an altarpiece for St Bavo’s Cathedral, Ghent; it shows the scene that appeared on the left panel. The two women wearing gold crowns are Saints Gertrude and Begga, the sisters of Saint Bavo (who appears in the central panel). Saint Bavo was a Roman solider, but he left the military to become a monk; his sisters followed his example by becoming nuns. Judging by her closeness and familiarity, the woman in the white headdress is probably a companion of the sisters, possibly Saint Bavo’s daughter. Saint Gertrude clutches her necklace as she goes to discard it, just as her brother in the central panel gives away his wealth before entering the monastery. Her head is tipped back and her eyes are raised as if towards heaven. Her gown, its gold embroidery visible on the hem, shimmers in the light, emphasising the wealth that the family are about to give up." - (National Gallery of Art, London)

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