Jacob van Walscapelle
Jacob van Walscapelle (1644–1727) was a Dutch painter renowned for his exquisitely detailed still-life paintings during the Dutch Golden Age. Born Jacobus Cruydenier in Dordrecht, he later adopted the name van Walscapelle, likely derived from his mother's family estate. Van Walscapelle was initially trained as an apothecary, but his passion for painting led him to study under Cornelis Kick, a well-known still-life artist in Amsterdam. Under Kick’s tutelage, van Walscapelle honed his skills in the meticulous depiction of flowers and fruits, adopting the naturalistic style characteristic of Dutch still-life painters. His works are celebrated for their precision, vibrant color palette, and masterful use of light and shadow, capturing the delicate textures and ephemeral beauty of nature.
Van Walscapelle’s paintings often featured elaborate arrangements of flowers, fruits, and insects, rendered with such realism that they appeared almost tangible. His use of chiaroscuro to create depth and drama in his compositions made him a notable figure in the still-life genre, and his works were highly sought after by collectors in the 17th and 18th centuries. Though not as widely known as some of his contemporaries, van Walscapelle’s works have been recognized for their significant contribution to Dutch still life painting. Today, his paintings are held in major collections, including the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the Mauritshuis in The Hague, where they continue to be appreciated for their technical mastery and intricate beauty.
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Full Name: Jacob van Walscapelle (born Jacobus Cruydenier)
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Birth and Death: 1644–1727
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Profession: Painter
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Influences: Dutch Golden Age, Cornelis Kick
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Legacy: Celebrated for his realistic still lifes; works held in collections such as the Rijksmuseum and the Mauritshuis.
