Jacob Jordaens

Born in 1593 to a wealthy linen merchant in Antwerp, Jordaens received a solid education in mythology and the Bible, which formed the foundation for his later large-scale history and allegorical paintings.¹

Admitted as a master 'waterscilder' (water painter) in 1615, Jordaens initially specialized in tempera works and tapestry cartoons, which influenced the dynamic compositions of his later paintings and tapestry designs.¹

Jordaens studied under his only teacher, Adam van Noort, and married van Noort's eldest daughter, Catharina, in 1616. His close relationship with the van Noort family was a defining element of his early life and career.¹

In 1621, he became dean of the Guild of Saint Luke, accepting only on the condition that he wouldn't be liable for previous debts, showing a pragmatic side that supported his prolific and stable career.¹

In 1628, he was commissioned alongside Rubens and Van Dyck to paint altarpieces for the Augustinian church in Antwerp, proving his high standing among Flemish painters even early in his career.¹

In 1636, he participated in the decoration of the Torre de la Parada for Philip IV of Spain, creating mythological paintings based on Ovid's Metamorphoses following Rubens' designs.¹

After the deaths of Rubens and Van Dyck in the 1640s, Jordaens became the leading Flemish Baroque painter, maintaining his robust, realistic style over courtly refinement.¹