When Name of Mary appeared in 1730, it arrived at a moment of renewed Catholic devotion to the Virgin, coinciding with the formal institution of the Feast of the Holy Name of Mary by Pope Innocent XI in 1684. This painting stands out as one of the last major religious works attributed to Peter Paul Rubens, who died in 1640, raising immediate questions about its authorship and date. Some scholars suggest it may be the product of Rubens’ workshop or a later follower working in his style, reflecting the enduring influence of his vision well into the eighteenth century.

The painting’s uncertain origins continue to spark debate, making it a touchstone for discussions about authenticity and artistic legacy. At the heart of the composition, Mary is depicted at the moment her name is invoked in prayer, surrounded by a soft radiance that isolates her from the shadowed background. Her hands are crossed over her chest in a gesture of humility, while a delicate garland of lilies—symbols of purity—rests at her feet. The interplay of light draws the viewer’s gaze to her serene face, emphasizing her role as intercessor and protector.

This visual language recalls Rubens’ earlier treatments of the Virgin, such as in The Immaculate Conception, but here the atmosphere is more intimate, focusing on the personal act of devotion rather than grand celestial drama. The gentle modeling of flesh and fabric, paired with the luminous palette, reinforces the sense of grace and presence. The painting’s provenance remains clouded, with no surviving documentation of its original commission or early ownership. It is typical of the devotional images produced in the Southern Netherlands during the late Baroque, often intended for private chapels or altars.

Over the centuries, Name of Mary has passed through several hands, sometimes attributed directly to Rubens, at other times to his circle. Today, it is displayed in a museum context, inviting viewers to reflect not only on its devotional message but also on the complex histories of attribution and influence that surround the legacy of Peter Paul Rubens.