A Life of Artistic Brilliance
Jan Andrea Lievens Jan Lievens, a Dutch painter from the Netherlands, lived from 1607 to 1674. His work is often associated with that of Rembrandt, as both artists worked in similar styles during the Dutch Golden Age.
Early Life and Training
Born on October 24, 1607, Jan was the son of
Lieven Hendriksze, a tapestry worker. According to
Arnold Houbraken, Jan began his artistic training under
Joris Verschoten. At around the age of 10, he was sent to
Pieter Lastman in Amsterdam for a two-year apprenticeship.
Rise to Prominence
Jan's prodigious talent led him to become an independent artist at the age of 12 in Leiden. His copy of
Democriet & Herakliet by
Cornelis van Haarlem, and a portrait of his mother,
Machtelt Jans van Noortzant, garnered attention from
Maurice of Nassau, Prince of Orange. This led to Jan being invited to the British court at the age of 31.
Collaborations and Influences
Jan collaborated with
Rembrandt van Rijn from 1626 to 1631, producing over two dozen paintings, drawings, and etchings. This competitive collaboration led to difficulties in attributing works from this period. Jan's dramatic compositions show the influence of the Caravaggisti, while his talent for painting in life-size scale is evident.
Notable Works and Legacy
Some notable works by Jan include: