Govert Teuniszoon Flinck

Place: Kleve

Born: 1615

Death: 1660

Biography:

Early Life and Apprenticeship

, a prominent painter of the Dutch Golden Age, was born in 1615 at Kleve, capital of the Duchy of Cleves. Initially apprenticed to his father as a silk mercer, Flinck's true passion lay in etching and drawing, which led him to be sent to Leeuwarden.

Artistic Influences and Notable Mentors

At Leeuwarden, Flinck boarded with Lambert Jacobszoon, a Mennonite known more for his itinerant preaching than painting. This pivotal period saw Flinck's companionship with Jacob Backer, another youth determined to become an artist, which further solidified his passion for painting. Notably, Flinck was influenced by Rembrandt, as acknowledged by Joachim von Sandrart in 1637, and later by the grand forms and actions of Peter Paul Rubens.

Establishment and Patronage

Flinck's relations with Cleves became crucial. He was introduced to the court of the Great Elector, Friedrich Wilhelm I of Brandenburg, who possessed the Duchy and married Louisa of Orange in 1646. Flinck obtained the patronage of John Maurice of Nassau, made stadtholder of Cleves in 1649. In 1652, as a citizen of Amsterdam, Flinck married Sophie van der Houven, daughter of a director of the Dutch East India Company.

Artistic Legacy and Notable Works

• Triumphal Procession with Musicians, a painting showcasing Flinck's mastery over capturing grand scenes.
• The Museum Huis ten Bosch, where several of Flinck's works are housed, offering a glimpse into his artistic range.
• Flinck's self-portraits, akin to those found in Rembrandt Van Rijn's Self Portrait (17), demonstrate his depth as an artist.

Conclusion

's life, marked by influential mentors and patrons, culminated in a legacy of grand, expressive paintings. His work, now part of The Museum Huis ten Bosch's collection, stands as a testament to his artistic prowess. Explore more of Flinck's works on Wikioo.org, and delve into the world of Dutch Golden Age art.

• View Triumphal Procession with Musicians in a virtual 3D gallery on Wikioo.org.
• Discover more about Lambert Jacobszoon and his influence on Flinck's early career.
• Learn about the Museum Huis ten Bosch's history and its significance in Dutch art.