The style of European Baroque that developed in Antwerp was exceptionally brilliant. Along with Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck and Jacob Jordaens were highliy influental in Flemish art ot the 17th century. The Baroque period in Flanders was characterized by monumental paintings which contained a vitality enhancend by a vivid painting style, dramatic lighting and sense of movement.

Antwerp, at that time one of the wealthiest commercial cities in Europe, became one of the largest and most important artistic centers as well. With paintings, drawings and prints of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, the exhibition will recall the spirited opulence and emotional intensity of the Flemish Baroque period and show such important works as Venus Frigida and the Descent from the Cross by Rubens, van Dyck's Christ in the tomb and Jordaens' Adoration of the Shepherds.