Kerry Downes was one of my professors at Reading University and was one of the most highly regarded art historians in the world. Although most of his work was specific to British architecture (Hawksmoor, Vanbrugh, Wren) he had a deep affection for the work of Rubens. The result was this highly accessible and deeply scholarly book on the Flemish master. Solidly informative this book is an absolute must for any art historian, or anyone with an interest in Baroque art.