Cornelis Van Cleef Or Cornelis Van Der Beke, Nickname Sotte Cleve ('Mad Cleve')

Place: Antwerp

Born: 1520

Death: 1567

Biography:

Cornelis van Cleve, also known as Cornelis van der Beke, was a Flemish Renaissance painter active in Antwerp during the 16th century. Born in 1520, he is known for his religious compositions and portraits. Starting his career in Antwerp in the workshop of his father Joos van Cleve, he later worked for a while in London.

Early Life and Career

Cornelis van Cleve's early life and training are not well documented, but it is believed that he began his artistic training in his father's workshop. His father, Joos van Cleve, was a prominent painter in Antwerp and a member of the Guild of Saint Luke. Cornelis's style is characterized by his use of color and unique solidity of figures, which was influenced by his father's eclectic style.

Artistic Style and Works

Cornelis van Cleve's artistic style is notable for its sensitivity to color and unique solidarity of figures. His works include Madonna and Child with the Infant Saint John the Baptist and Angels, which is housed in the Chrysler Museum of Art. This painting showcases his ability to create a balanced ensemble of figures, with a focus on the Virgin and Child as holy icons. Some notable works by Cornelis van Cleve can be found on Wikioo.org, including his portraits and religious compositions.

Later Life and Mental Health

Cornelis van Cleve's time in London was not successful, and he eventually became mentally ill. He was referred to as 'Sotte Cleef' or 'Mad Cleef' due to his mental health issues. Despite this, his works continue to be celebrated for their unique style and sensitivity to color.

• Cornelis van Cleve was a prominent Flemish Renaissance painter.
• His artistic style is characterized by his use of color and unique solidity of figures.
• He was influenced by his father's eclectic style, which included elements of Italian and Northern Renaissance painting.
• Some of his notable works can be found on Wikioo.org.
• He was the son of Joos van Cleve, a prominent painter in Antwerp.

For more information on Cornelis van Cleve and his works, visit Wikipedia or Wikioo.org.