Jacob Jordaens – Artwork and Bio of the Flemish Painter

Jacob Jordaens was a Flemish painter born on 19 May 1593 in Antwerp, Belgium. Jordan was born into a wealthy family and enjoyed the privileges of a high social class. He studied under Adam Van Noort, living in his house for the duration of his eight years of training. After his studies, in 1615, he was admitted into the Guild of St. Luke as a watercolor artist.

In 1616, Jacob married Adam Van Noort’s eldest daughter and bought a house in his childhood neighborhood, where he lived with his wife and three children. Although Jacob never made the trip to Italy like other Flemish artists, he studied the works of Italian painters. He rose to prominence as the leading Flemish artist after the death of Reubens.

Reubens, who had employed the services of Jacob in carrying out commissions for the Spanish kingdom from 1936-1937, set the foundation for his success. In his time, Jacob received royal commissions from England, Sweden, and the Netherlands. On 18 October 1678, he died of zweetziekte disease(sweating sickness) in Antwerp, Belgium.

What was Jacob Jordaens Known For?

Jacob Jordaens was known for his large paintings of biblical and mythological scenes. His artworks gleaned with bright colors, and the figures they contained were robust. His works were also renowned for the masterful application of chiaroscuro.

Who was Jacob Jordaens Influenced By?

Jacob Jordaens was influenced by Peter Paul Reubens. Jacob created his artworks in the style of Reubens, employing a similar palette and techniques of naturalism. He even built his house in the semblance of Reubens’s house. Jacob’s works tended towards greater realism, the only evident difference in the works of the pair.