Van Dyck's Antwerp Sketchbook (1966, first edition)
Michael Jaffé's scholarly but controversial discovery of the young Van Dyck's sketchbook at Chatsworth, this copy in the publisher's original cardboard housing
Author
Publisher
Printing Details
First edition. Two volumes (complete), bound in cream cloth, gilt and black titling to spine, Van Dyck's initial in gilt to upper board, top edge gilt, and mylar wrapper (note: this edition was not issued with a pictorial wrapper). Slipcase in black, with gilt titling and tipped-in portrait to spine, and, unusually, the publisher's original cardboard housing. The slipcase is 31.5 × 26 × 7.5cm. Vol 1: 316pp, Vol 2: 290pp.
A scholarly, if controversial, study of Van Dyck's Antwerp Sketchbook. In 1955, while researching Flemish art, art historian and Professor Michael Jaffé identified a bound volume of drawings in the library of Chatsworth House. Though the sketchbook had been known to scholars previously, it was largely dismissed or misattributed to other hands. Jaffé attributed the collection of drawings—containing copies after Italian Renaissance masters, studies of antique sculpture, and early compositions—to a teenage Anthony van Dyck during his early period in Peter Paul Rubens's Antwerp workshop.
On publication, art historians credited Jaffé with giving crucial insight into van Dyck’s formative years and workshop practices. Prominent scholars—most notably Sir Oliver Millar and Julius S. Held—challenged Jaffé’s conclusions. Critics questioned whether the sketchbook was entirely by van Dyck, arguing instead that parts of it (or the entire book) were compiled by another member of Rubens's studio or represented later copies after lost originals by Rubens. Jaffé defended his attribution throughout his career, often engaging in fiery exchanges in scholarly journals.
Volume I: Text, historical context, catalogue raisonné, and analytical commentary on van Dyck’s early style and relationship to Rubens.
Volume II: Complete facsimile reproduction of the original sketchbook leaves, along with comparative plates.
Condition
The books are in very good condition, with secure binding and clean pages. There is some sun-fading to the cream dye on the spines. The slipcase is very good but with a very little sun-fading around the opening. The publisher's original cardboard has a water stain and some rubbing, along with having been opened. However, rare to find in such a complete form. A heavy set at over 5kg.
As of July 2026, books remain duty-free. The price of the book incurs no extra US import fees.
Price
£120.00
