old master paintings
Adam van Breen, born in Amsterdam in 1585 and passing in Norway in 1642, was a notable Dutch Golden Age painter who specialized in winter landscapes. His work is distinguished by its vivid depiction of the icy, bustling life of the Netherlands during the winter months. Van Breen became a member of the Hague Guild of St. Luke in 1612 and worked in various cities including The Hague, Amsterdam, and later Oslo, Norway.
While detailed biographical information about van Breen remains scarce, it is known that he married in 1611 and was registered in the Dutch town’s guild the following year. His artistic style is often compared to that of Adriaen van de Venne, with whom he shared a preference for winter scenes. However, van Breen drew inspiration primarily from Hendrick and Barendt Avercamp, setting his characters apart through their more assertive, stockier figures, sometimes even including portrait-like depictions within his compositions.
Adam van Breen's paintings are celebrated for incorporating figures in luxurious clothing, a reflection of The Hague's status as a political and cultural center. This influence is apparent in his landscape works, which not only capture the beauty of the Dutch winters but also subtly document the societal contexts of the period. In 1617, van Breen illustrated military evolutions for the Prince of Nassau, showcasing his versatility beyond landscapes. His move to Norway in the 1640s introduced a new phase in his career, where he produced several notable portraits.
For collectors and experts in art and antiques, Adam van Breen's work offers a fascinating glimpse into the Dutch Golden Age, characterized by its detailed and lively winter scenes. His paintings, such as those documented in private collections and galleries, remain a testament to his skill and distinctive approach to capturing the essence of his time.
To stay updated on new discoveries, sales, and auction events related to Adam van Breen, signing up for updates from relevant art galleries and auction houses is recommended. This ensures access to the latest information on available works and exhibitions featuring this remarkable Dutch painter.
Anthony van Dyck, a Flemish painter born in 1599 in Antwerp and passed away in 1641 in London, is celebrated as one of the foremost Baroque painters of the 17th century. His notable contributions to the art world include his exceptional portraits of European aristocracy, as well as his religious and mythological paintings. Van Dyck's early exposure to art was influenced significantly by his apprenticeship with Hendrik van Balen and later, by the profound impact of working alongside Peter Paul Rubens. His mastery was recognized early on, leading him to set up his own workshop by the age of 15.
Van Dyck's journey to Italy in 1621 marked a pivotal phase in his career, allowing him to immerse himself in studying the Italian masters and commencing his successful stint as a portraitist. His style evolved under the influence of Titian, evident from his vibrant use of color and refined modeling of form. Van Dyck's Italian period not only honed his artistic skills but also established his reputation as a painter of consequence.
Upon returning to Antwerp, van Dyck's portraits became highly sought after, leading to commissions from notable figures such as Archduchess Isabella and Queen Mother Maria de' Medici. His role as a court painter further solidified in England under the patronage of King Charles I, where he was knighted and appointed as the principal painter, profoundly shaping the aristocratic character of Charles I's reign through his portraits.
Van Dyck's legacy extends beyond his death, having influenced English portrait painting for over a century. His innovative techniques in watercolour and etching, along with his sophisticated portrayal of subjects, continue to be admired. His art not only showcases his technical prowess but also reflects the cultural and social nuances of his era, making his work a significant study for collectors and art historians alike.
For enthusiasts eager to explore the intersections of art, history, and culture through the lens of Anthony van Dyck's work, staying informed about new discoveries and auction events is essential. Signing up for updates can provide exclusive insights into the world of one of the most influential figures in Flemish art. This subscription ensures that collectors and experts are well-informed of any developments related to van Dyck's oeuvre, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of his contributions to the art world.
Melvin John Ramos was an American figurative painter, specializing most often in paintings of female nudes, whose work incorporates elements of realist and abstract art.
Jan Lievens was a Dutch painter, draughtsman, and engraver of the Golden Age and a member of the Guild of St. Luke in Antwerp.
It is known that while still very young, at the age of twelve, Lievens already created skillful paintings that amazed art lovers of Leiden. He was later friendly with Rembrandt, shared a studio with him, and painted in a similar style. Lievens was also a court painter in England and elsewhere.
Jan Leavens created genre scenes, landscapes, ceremonial portraits and sketches on various themes, as well as religious and allegorical images, which were already highly valued during his lifetime.
Albert Flamm was a German artist of the Düsseldorf school. He studied architecture at the Dusseldorf Academy of Art and in Antwerp. In 1841 he turned to painting and became a pupil of Andreas Achenbach. In 1848 Flamm became one of the founders of the Malkasten artists' association.
Albert Flamm painted mainly Italian landscapes, recognised for their truthfulness of nature, their vivid colours and their virtuosic treatments. He often chose an elevated viewing position to be able to create wide panoramic perspectives in warm, bright sunlight and with finely rendered detail.
George Romney was an English portrait painter. He was the most fashionable artist of his day, painting many leading society figures – including his artistic muse, Emma Hamilton, mistress of Lord Nelson.
William Shakespeare was a British poet and playwright and writer.
William's father, John Shakespeare, was a merchant and official in Stratford. There are reports that he was a sailor for a time before joining a theater company in London. Beginning in the 1590s, Shakespeare began writing plays, and in 1593 he published a poem, Venus and Adonis, which became popular. He dedicated it to the Duke of Southampton, who was a philanthropist and patron of talent, and soon his business was booming.
From 1592 to 1600 Shakespeare wrote his dramas and romantic comedies "Richard III", "The Taming of the Shrew", "Romeo and Juliet", "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and "The Merchant of Venice", as well as the comedies "Much Ado About Nothing", "Twelfth Night" and the tragedy "Julius Caesar". The playwright's business was so successful that he even bought a large house in Stratford. In 1599, Shakespeare became one of the owners, playwright and actor of the new theater "Globe". In 1603 King James took Shakespeare's troupe under his direct patronage. In the mature period, the great playwright turned to tragedies, there were "Hamlet", "Othello", "King Lear", "Macbeth" and others.
Although in the 19th century researchers had some doubts about the authorship of many of these works, William Shakespeare is considered the greatest English playwright, one of the best playwrights in the world. His plays have been translated into all major languages and to this day form the basis of the world theatrical repertoire, most of them have been screened many times. According to the Guinness Book of Records, Shakespeare remains the world's best-selling playwright, and his plays and poems have sold more than 4 billion copies in the nearly 400 years since his death.
