Peter Paul Rubens – Oil Sketch for High Altarpiece, St Bavo, Ghent Part 5 National Gallery UK

The triptych presents a complex and densely populated scene unfolding within an architectural framework suggestive of a grand civic or religious space. The composition is immediately striking for its dynamism; figures surge forward, creating a sense of urgent movement and emotional intensity. A palpable energy permeates the work, conveyed through the swirling draperies, varied gestures, and the overlapping of bodies.
The left panel depicts a group gathered around a central female figure, her posture conveying both authority and compassion. She is attended by several individuals, some appearing to offer gifts or seek solace. The figures are rendered with considerable anatomical detail, emphasizing their physicality and contributing to the overall sense of realism. A cluster of infants and young children at the base of the composition adds a layer of tenderness and vulnerability to the scene.
The central panel showcases a figure in elaborate ecclesiastical vestments, positioned prominently within an architectural setting defined by monumental columns and balustrades. He appears to be presiding over or participating in a ceremony involving numerous other individuals, some kneeling, others standing in postures of reverence or supplication. The artist has employed dramatic lighting to highlight the central figure and create a sense of depth within the composition. A throng of onlookers fills the space, their faces reflecting a range of emotions – awe, hope, and perhaps even anxiety.
The right panel introduces an element of conflict or struggle. Here we see a group engaged in what appears to be a military encounter. Figures are depicted wielding weapons, while others seem to be either fleeing or attempting to intervene. A large animal, possibly a lamb, is present near the center of this scene, its presence adding a symbolic layer to the narrative. The color palette here shifts slightly, with more emphasis on darker tones and a heightened sense of drama.
The overall impression is one of profound significance, likely related to a religious or historical event. The artist’s use of chiaroscuro – the interplay of light and shadow – enhances the emotional impact of the scene, drawing the viewers eye to key figures and moments. The crowded composition and dynamic arrangement of figures suggest a narrative unfolding on multiple levels, inviting contemplation about themes of faith, power, sacrifice, and human interaction. The sketch-like quality of the execution, with visible brushstrokes and areas of unfinished detail, suggests that this is an initial study for a larger work, offering insight into the artist’s creative process.