Nicolas Rubens Wearing a Coral Necklace

Rubens' most famous works are large-scale paintings in a style that can best be described as aristocratic Baroque. Beginning in Flanders, his major works were executed for the Catholic Church (the region's main artistic patron) and the Flemish nobility. He also accepted private commissions. While executing preparatory drawings (meant to remain private) and oil sketches for many of his artworks, he trained numerous apprentices in his vibrant and successful workshop. Rubens' intimate drawing depicts his youngest son Nicolas. It effortlessly engages the attention of the viewer. Why is the boy wearing a necklace? Even in this age of scientific discovery, children were advised to wear coral necklaces to protect them from fits and anxiety.