Archduke Leopold Wilhelm in His Gallery at Brussels

Do you miss museums? We do! So today, thanks to the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna we present a kind of proto-museum!

The great significance of Leopold Wilhelm (1614–1662) is based less on his political activity as regent of the Spanish Netherlands than on his role as a patron of the arts. He compiled a gallery of more than 1400 pictures, most of which are found in the Kunsthistorisches Museum today. Here, Teniers depicts the archduke and himself with other courtiers as they view 51 Italian works from the collection of the Duke of Hamilton. Leopold Wilhelm had purchased them shortly before this picture was painted.

Have a great Tuesday!

P.S. Our paper calendars are still on -40% sale, don't miss them!

P.P.S. Leopold Wilhelm was a proud owner of a Wunderkammer (Cabinet of Curiosities). These were popular among kings and dukes in Early Modern times. Read here more about these absolutely fascinating rooms and all the wonders that were kept there!