Circle of Artus Wolffort (1581–1641), Circle of - Le denier de César

The diffusion through engraving: This successful composition circulated throughout Europe and particularly in Antwerp thanks to the engraving by Lucas Vorsterman ( Rubens's official engraver). Studio painters and followers drew direct inspiration from it to meet commercial demand.

The influence of Rubens (circa 1612–1615): Rubens painted a major version of The Denier of Caesar around 1612–1614.

The Antwerp style (1610–1620): We find the typical codes of the Antwerp masters of that decade

- Expressive, even grimacing physiognomies for the Pharisees (in contrast to the serenity of Christ).

- The use of bonnets, turbans and orientalist fabrics to characterize the doctors of the Law.

- A tight mid-length framing that favors the theatrical dynamism of the gesture.

Artus Wolffort (1581–1641) Antwerp Master: Active at the heart of Antwerp's Golden Century, he underwent a major influence from Peter Paul Rubens and, to a lesser extent, Caravaggio (via tenebrism).

The oak panel being certified by the pannetier’s punch of Franchois van Thienen (active ~1602–1617). Distinctive style: He is particularly renowned for his mid-length compositions of biblical or philosophical subjects, characterized by mature men with well-groomed beards, expressive features and highly individualized faces.

The Work: The Denier of Caesar (Antwerp, ca. 1610–1620)
The Subject: A classic biblical scene inspired directly by a successful composition by Rubens, pitting the serenity of Christ against the grimacing, suspicious expressions of the Pharisees and the doctors of the Law.

The Support and Authentication: The oak panel bears Antwerp’s official punches (the cut-off hands of the Guild of Saint Luke) as well as the monogram of Franchois van Thienen, master pannetier active between 1602 and 1617.

Dating: This mark guarantees that the support was made no later than the early seventeenth century, anchoring the execution of the painting directly in the prosperous decade of the Antwerp Baroque school (1610–1620).