Jan van Kessel the elder (1626-1679) - A Vase of Flowers - PD.32-1975 - Fitzwilliam Museum

Jan van Kessel the Elder (1626-1679) was a Flemish painter known for his still life paintings, especially of insects and other small creatures. He was born in Antwerp, Belgium, into a family of artists, and was trained by his father, Jan van Kessel the Elder. He later studied under David Teniers the Younger and became a member of the Antwerp Guild of Saint Luke in 1644. Van Kessel's paintings often featured intricate details of insects, flowers, and other natural objects, arranged in a harmonious composition. His work was highly sought after by collectors and was praised for its scientific accuracy and beauty. He also painted landscapes, genre scenes, and portraits. Van Kessel's influence can be seen in the work of later artists such as Maria Sibylla Merian and Jan van Huysum. He died in Antwerp in 1679 and was buried in the Church of Saint James.