Hieronymus Bosch

Born c. 1450 in 's-Hertogenbosch as Jheronimus van Aken, he adopted the name 'Bosch' from his birthplace. He came from a family of painters, including his grandfather, father, and uncles.¹

In 1463, a catastrophic fire destroyed 4,000 houses in his hometown. Witnessing this event at age 13 likely influenced his later nightmarish depictions of burning hellscapes.¹

Around 1486, Bosch joined the Illustrious Brotherhood of Our Blessed Lady. This membership solidified his social status and provided connections to influential patrons across Europe.¹

Bosch produced at least 16 triptychs, including The Garden of Earthly Delights. This format allowed him to depict a narrative arc from Eden to earthly temptation and finally to eternal damnation.¹

Bosch spent nearly his entire life in 's-Hertogenbosch. He died in 1516, and a memorial funeral mass was held on August 9 at the church of Saint John, marking the end of his influential career.¹