The Art History Museum in Vienna is an ideal location to explore and comprehend what sets an exceptional artist apart from merely good ones, and the mediocre. This tour provides not only an opportunity to admire the masterpieces of Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer, Raphael, and Caravaggio, but also the chance to discern what separates their work from that of their lesser-known peers.

Our journey includes an in-depth look at The Hunters in the Snow, part of the world’s largest collection of Peter Bruegel’s work. We’ll discuss why this piece became recognised as the ‘unapproachably cool pinnacle of art’ only in the 20th century, and the daring it took to broach such a contentious subject in the 16th century.

We’ll examine the specific demands of Rubens’ patrons and contrast these with works he produced for his personal enjoyment. The instance of Samson’s Capture by Rubens’ pupil Antonis van Dyck will reveal the unique characteristics of Rubens’ work that ensure his esteemed place in art history, equal to and in some instances surpassing his mentors.

A review of Vermeer’s The Allegory of The Art and Caravaggio’s Madonna with the Beads will demonstrate the epitome of mimesis, a key principle of Western aesthetics. In contrast, the work of Parmigianino will reveal early efforts in the art world to veer from the path of life-like perfection.

This art tour is tailor-made for you if you seek to experience transcendent art and gain a deeper appreciation of what distinguishes it as exceptional.

• Please come punctually to the meeting point in front of the museum’s main entrance. There are three doors and the central one is closed. Your guide will be waiting for you in front of it. Your guide will have your museum entrance tickets with her.