Peter Paul Rubens

Sir Peter Paul Rubens was more than just a painter; he was a 17th-century superstar. This Flemish Baroque master ran a studio so prolific it was practically an art factory, churning out over 1,400 pieces. Rumor has it he could paint with one hand while dictating a letter in another, all while entertaining noble guests. This might be a slight exaggeration, but the man was a workaholic, rising at 4 a.m. daily. Not just an artist, Rubens was also a classically educated scholar and a diplomat, knighted by two kings. He was known for his charm and good looks, described as having a "laughing air." So, was he a painter, a diplomat, or an early modern celebrity? All of the above, with a flair for the dramatic in both his art and his life.