Theodosius and Saint Ambrose
Peter Paul Rubens & Anthony van Dyck · 1617
Why it's great
In 390 Bishop Ambrose of Milan stands in the church doorway and refuses to let the Emperor Theodosius enter until he repents for a terrible massacre. The story shows the Church becoming powerful enough to stand up to emperors. Rubens painted it in 1617 and Van Dyck made this version soon after.
🏛️ Part of history
The Fall of the Western Roman Empire (312–476) — In 390 Bishop Ambrose of Milan stands in the church doorway and refuses to let the Emperor Theodosius enter until he repents for a terrible massacre.
Where to see it
📍 Location not recordedWe couldn't confirm where it hangs today. Museums sometimes move or lend paintings, so check the museum's website before you travel.
Hang it on your wall
Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
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Peter Paul Rubens was born in Siegen, Germany, in 1577 and grew up in Antwerp, which became his home. He was the most famous Baroque painter of northern Europe, ran a huge workshop, and also worked as a diplomat for Spain. He died in Antwerp in 1640.
Anthony van Dyck was a Flemish painter born in Antwerp in 1599. He was Rubens's most gifted assistant, traveled to Italy, and in 1632 moved to London as court painter to King Charles I, where he set the style for English portraits. He died in London in 1641 at the age of 42.
