Gemma Tiberiana by Rubens

Acquisition of painting by Rubens of the Gemma Tiberiana, one of two great cameos in the treasury of Sainte Chapelle in Paris. The copy is over three times the size of the original and was made in 1626. The cameo depicts Germanicus taking leave of Tiberious and his mother LIvia surrounded by other members of the family. It was in the collection of the distinguished Rubens Scholar, Christopher Norris and on his death offered in lieu of tax. As the value of the cameo exceeded the tax debt, NHMF contributed £45,000 towards its acquisition using the 'hybrid' solution.

Region
South East England
Grant awarded
£450,000
Year awarded