Christoffel Jacobsz Van Der Laemen

Place: Antwerp

Born: 1606

Death: 1651

Biography:

Christoffel Jacobsz Van Der Laemen

was a Flemish painter who specialized in merry company scenes with elegant figures. He was born in 1606 and died in 1651, making him a prominent figure in the art world of 17th century Belgium.

Early Life and Training

was the son of Jacob van der Laemen and Anna Dirkx. His father was a painter and art dealer from Antwerp, who worked in Brussels between 1613 and 1620. It is believed that Christoffel Jacobsz Van Der Laemen trained with his father, learning the techniques of painting and developing his own unique style.

Artistic Style and Themes

was known for his merry company scenes, which often featured elegant figures engaged in various activities such as card games, backgammon, and dancing. His favorite themes also included brothel scenes, the prodigal son, music making, and scenes of food and drink set in elegant rooms, inns, and gardens. His use of color and composition added to the charm of his paintings, making them highly sought after by art collectors.

Notable Works

Some of Christoffel Jacobsz Van Der Laemen's notable works include:

• The Prodigal Son, which is housed at the Art Museum RIGA BOURSE in Riga, Latvia.
• Dancing Party in an Interior, which features a dancing party in a large room with a painting of the New Testament on the background wall.
• His paintings of brothel scenes and card games, which showcase his ability to capture the essence of everyday life in 17th century Belgium.

Influence and Legacy

style has been compared to that of Dirck Hals, a Dutch painter known for his merry company scenes. However, Van Der Laemen's use of thick impasto and sfumato effect sets him apart from other artists of the time. His influence can be seen in the work of Laurence Neter, a Polish-Dutch genre painter who was likely inspired by Van Der Laemen's motifs in his dancing scenes. For more information on Christoffel Jacobsz Van Der Laemen and his works, visit Wikioo.org. You can also explore the Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts in Brussels, Belgium, which features an impressive collection of Flemish art, including works by Peter Paul Rubens and Justus Sustermans.