Jan I Brueghel

Jan Brueghel the Elder (1568–1625), known as ‘Velvet’ Brughel because of his delicate brushwork, was a prominent Flemish painter. He was a versatile artist, known for his religious paintings, landscapes, seascapes and flower still lifes.

Born in Brussels, he was the son of Pieter Bruegel the Elder, a leading figure of the Flemish Renaissance. This artistic background gave Jan early exposure to the world of art. He trained under his father and later worked in the studio of the Archduke Albert in Antwerp.

His artistic journey took him to major European art centres, including Antwerp and Milan, where he honed his skills and developed his unique style. By blending meticulous attention to detail with a rich, colourful palette, Brueghel became a master of the Baroque era.

Throughout his career, Brueghel worked for many noble and royal patrons. In 1606, Brueghel became the court painter to Archduke Albert and Archduchess Isabella, the regents of the southern Netherlands. This position gave him special privileges, including the right to live in Antwerp and exemption from civic guard duty. He held this prestigious role for the rest of his life.

Brueghel often collaborated with other artists, including Peter Paul Rubens. In their joint works Rubens painted the large religious or allegorical figures, while Brueghel provided the setting, including landscape, animals, flowers, and other still life elements. He also painted figures in large landscapes by Joos de Momper.

One of Brueghel’s most notable contributions was his refinement of the genre of still life painting. He elevated the depiction of everyday objects to an art form. His ability to capture the textures and vibrancy of his subjects set a new standard for still life painting. Additionally, his landscapes, often populated with small figures engaged in daily life, offer a glimpse into the social and cultural life of 17th-century Flanders.

Brueghel’s paintings are highly sought after for their beauty and depth. His influence lasted long after his lifetime, shaping the work of many artists. Today, he is remembered as a master of Baroque painting, whose works continue to captivate audiences around the world.