Early Life and Career

Jan Van Eyck, a preeminent figure of the Early Netherlandish painting movement, was born around 1390 in Maaseik, present-day Belgium. By 1422, he had established himself as a master painter with a workshop and assistants in The Hague. Notably, he served John III the Pitiless and later Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, as court painter, enjoying high esteem and engaging in diplomatic endeavors.

Artistic Contributions

Van Eyck's works, initially grounded in the International Gothic style, transcended its boundaries through his enhanced naturalistic approach and the innovative use of oil paint. This set a new standard in artistry, making him a pioneer of the Early Netherlandish painting movement. Some of his notable works include:

• God the Father (212 x 83 cm, Northern Renaissance, Oil On Panel, View at WahooArt.com)
• Portrait of a Young Man (33 x 19 cm, Northern Renaissance, Oil On Panel, View at WahooArt.com)
• Dresden Triptych (Virgin and Child with St. Michael and St. Catherine and a Donor) (28 x 38 cm, Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister, Dresden, Germany, Northern Renaissance, Wood, View at WahooArt.com)
• Portrait of Giovanni Arnolfini and his Wife (detail) (National Gallery, London, United Kingdom, Oil, View at WahooArt.com)
• Man in a Blue Turban (17 x 23 cm, The National Museum of Art of Romania, Bucharest, Romania, Northern Renaissance, Wood, View at WahooArt.com)

Legacy and Influence

Van Eyck's influence was profound, setting the stage for the flourishing of the Early Netherlandish painting tradition. His innovative use of oil paint added depth and realism to his works, making him a renowned figure in the art world. To explore more of Jan Van Eyck's works and the Early Netherlandish painting movement, visit Jan Van Eyck's page at WahooArt.com.

Further Reading

* Wikipedia: [Jan van Eyck](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jan_van_Eyck) * WahooArt.com: Northern Netherlandish Painter * WahooArt.com: The Early Netherlandish Art Movement