The Meeting Between Abraham and Melchizedek

"The Meeting between Abraham and Melchizedek" is a captivating painting by Peter Paul Rubens, created between 1616 and 1617. This masterpiece depicts the biblical encounter between Abraham and Melchizedek from Genesis 14. Measuring 204 cm by 250 cm, the painting is proudly displayed at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen.

The history of this artwork is quite intriguing. It originally belonged to the Du Bois family and was later acquired by William VIII, Landgrave of Hesse-Kassel, in 1749. During the tumultuous period of 1806, the painting was confiscated by Vivant Denon and taken to Paris. It found a new home at the museum in Caen in 1811.

Despite efforts by the Elector of Hesse to reclaim the painting, the museum's curator successfully retained it until around 1830. Today, visitors to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen can admire this exquisite piece and reflect on its rich history.