The true effigies of the most eminent painters and other famous artists that have flourished in Europe curiously engraven on copper-plates : together with an account of the time when they lived, the most remarkable passages of their lives, and most considerable works ...

1. & 2. Hubert and Iohn Van Eyck

WEre both born at Maseyck in the Low Countries, upon the Meuse. Hubert about the year 1366. John not long after, They were the first Inventers of painting in Oyle, whereby the Colours not only receive a Gloss, but are preserved from fading. John, though he was Scholar to his Brother Hubert, yet by his In∣dustry excelled him in knowledge of the art, and in his inven∣tions: Witness that incomparable piece of his in St. John's Church at Ghent, in which are 330 figures, the Faces so well diversified that one cannot but admire at. The Horses haires, the leaves of the trees, and herbs are so delicately touched, that they seem even to wave with the Air. Phillip the 2d of Spaine gave 2000 Ducats for a Copy of it, not being able to procure the Original at any price: Hubert died in the year 1426. And was buried in the Cathedral at Ghent. John died at Bruges, and was buried there.

3. Hierom Boschius or Ierom Dubois.

Had a peculiar inclination and faney to paint Apparitions and Spirits: In a piece of his, representing Hell, is most ad∣mirably described the horrid shapes and deformed ugliness of the infernal Spirits, the strange punishments of the damned in Rivers, as it were, of fire, tempestuously rolling and mingled with thick darkness and smoke, so that his Painting causes ra∣ther a horror mixt with admiration, than any delight to be∣hold, several of his pieces were carried to the Escurial, and placed there by order of the K: of Spaine. He died about the year 1500.

4. Roger of Brussels, otherwise called Roger Vander Weyde,

Was the author of those memorable representations of Justice which are to be seen in the Town-Hall of Brussels: The 1st of which represents the Emperor Trajan in his expe∣dition against the Dacians at the head of his Army, doing Justice upon the complaint of a poor Woman, against a Soldi∣er that had murthered her son; The Woman appears prostrate at the Emperor's feet, demanding Justice, with a counte∣nance that expresses a grief sufficient to excite compassion in the most obdurate, in the Emperor is to be seen a Severe Majestick air, that makes his looks terrible, yet seeming moved at the importunity of the afflicted mother, causes the Soldier to be brought forth, in whose face appears the: marks of his guilt, and the tokens of death; The hangman with a fierce and savage look standing by ready to execute the sentence of death to be pronounced against him. In another, you behold an aged person, pale and languishing on a purple bed, yet as if wrath supplied force to his feeble limbs, He seems, as it were, to start up half naked, and with eyes, though half dead, yet sparkling with indignation, and gnashing his teeth, he catches by the hair of the head fast hold of a young man of goodly Aspect, and furiously strikes him to the heart with a Dagger. One would presently imagine the old man, of the two, to be the Criminal; But the truth of the story will make it appear otherwise: For, Archambraut Prince of Brabant understanding that his Nephew and Heir had ravished a young woman, he commanded his Judges to proceed to punish him according to the severity of the Law; but they slightly passed it over, be∣cause the Criminal was not only the next Heir, but upon the point of succeeding his dying Ʋncle. This neglect of theirs so provoked Archambraut, that having concealed his indigna∣tion for some time, and finding his end approaching, he sent for the young Prince to his bed side, and seeming, as if he had somthing to impart to him concerning his succession, he seized upon him as you have heard, and stabbed him to expiate his Crime with his blood: This famous Painter died in the year 1529.

5. Theodore Van Harlem

Flourished in the year 1462. As appears by a peice of his at Leyden, upon which is written in Golden letters in Latin to this effect. Theodore of Harlem made me at Louvain in the year 1462, God grant him everlasting rest. This is all that re∣mains of him, yet is enough to evidence that he was an excel∣lent Artist.

6. Bernard of Brussels

A good Painter of Chaces, Forests and the hunting of wild beasts; Of this sort are those pieces which he made for the Emperor Charles the 5th, representing the Forest of Soigne, and the curious Prospects that surround it, in which the said Emperor, and the most considerable Persons of his Court that attended him in this noble exercise are drawn to the life. His designs of this kind are so excellent, that they were adjudged proper to be imitated in the richest Tapistries that could be made for the Palaces of the Princes of the Austrian family. There are 16 small pieces of his representing several Princes and Princesses of the Illustrious House of Orange, which were thought worthy to be copied by John Jordans one of the best Painters of Antwerp. He lived about the year 1530.

7. Iohn Mabusius

Was born at Haynaut upon the Sambre, a person of a disso∣lute and vitious life, yet an excellent Artist. For his debauch∣eries the Magistrates of Middleburgh put him in prison, where he had leisure to invent several curious Designs which were much esteemed: Two of his Pieces being the Pictures of 2 young Princes, were brought into England, and placed in the Gallery at Whitehall. He was Contemporary with Lucas Van Leyden, and his Rival in the art. He died at Antwerp 1. Oct. 1532. And was buried in the Cathedral.

8. Ioachim Patinier.

Born at Dinant in Flanders, his principal Imployment was in Landskips; Albert Durer had that esteem for him as to draw his Picture to preserve the memory of so fine a Painter. Notwithstanding the beauty of his Works, he is much blamed for his disorderly life, being the greatest Drunkard, as he was the best Painter of his time, never out of a Tavern, until forced by necessity to work for a supply to his Debaucheries.

9. Quintin Mesius

Was brought up in the profession of a Smith at Antwerp, where falling in love with one of the Damosels of that Countrey,

and perceiving that his dirty profession and the noise of his Anvil was dislastful to his Mistress, and that she preferred a Painter that was his Rival before him, he immediately chang∣ed his hammers and Anvil for pencils and Tables and became so successful that he soon obtained not only the possession of his Mistress but the name of one of the most famous Painters of his time. Several of his Pieces have been seen in England. K. Charles the 1st had an head of Erasmus of his doing in Oval, the Duke of Buckingham, and Earl of Arundel, had the Pictures of several persons of Quality in the Low-Countries so lively painted that nothing could be more natural. He died in the year. 1529.

10. Lucas Van Leyden,

So called from the place of his birth, was renowned both for Graving and Painting; From his youth he gave proofs of his excellent Genius, having, when he was but 9 years of age, graven several Copper-Plates so well as to receive the Appro∣bation of the most Judicious in that Art. Among many things that spread his fame, is that fine Picture of the Curing the Blind man by our Saviour, where he brings in several Persons mani∣festing their attention by variety of Looks, above all there ap∣pears a glorious Majesty in our Saviour who moves towards the poor man with a great deal of Compassion, the Blind man, is represented to be guided by a Youth, and coming to our Sa∣viour in such a manner as discovers both the sence of his Mise∣ry, and his impatience to be cured, he seems to beg this favour with a hope that diffuses through his Countenance a Joy mixt with respect and admiration; at the Bottom of the Peice is a Landskip, which much embellishes and sets off the other Beauties of the Work. He died at Leyden in the year 1533. In the 39th year of his age, after an Enterview betwixt him and Mabusius at Middleburgh, where falling out in their Cups, occasioned by their emulation of each other, Lucas fancied himself to be poisoned, and with this conceit died.

11. Iohn Holland:

Borne in the Low Countries: A very good Painter of Landskips, Woods, and Groves, with Satyrs, Nymphs, Faunes, Dryades, and other Rural Gods: He died at Antwerp about the year. 1540.

12. Iustus Clivensis.

He lived at Antwerp the place of his Nativity in the year. 1554. Hap'ned to be distempered in his braine, which hin∣dred that perfection he was like otherwise to have attained unto.

13. Matthew Cock:

Of Antwerp, came behind none of his time in painting Landskips and prospects of Countrey Towns and Villages. He died about the year 1560.

14. Henry de Bless.

Borne at a Town called Bovines near Dinant and lived about the year. 1550. Grew to great perfection without any assis∣tance, but his own happy Genius, and his diligent observation of Joachim Patiniers Works, whose house he frequently visited, and got those secrets thence which made his Landskips so de∣servedly celebrated. There is at Amsterdam a piece of his of the disciples going to Emaus, the Passion, the Resurrection, and some others of his Designs, but the best of his Works were bought up for the Emperor Rodolphus, and transported to Ger∣many. He Painted an Owl always as a mark of his Pieces, in∣timating perhaps thereby, his clear apprehension of the Art amidst the obscurity of his education.

15. Iohn Mayo commonly called Ver∣meyen

Borne at Beverwyck in Holland in the year 1500. Was well versed in Designing, in Geometry and Perspective. The Empe∣ror Charles 5th employed him as his domestick Painter in de∣signing his Military Expeditions. He was with him at Turis, where he made a description of the Town as it was besieged by Sea and land, and the manner of its being taken; From his De∣signs of this sort was the Models taken of those curious Ta∣pestries in the Escurial. He was called John with the great Beard, which he took a great pride to nourish, it was so long that though he was tall himself, yet he could stand upright when it touched the ground, The Emperor would sometimes divert himself with seeing it unloosed playing with the wind and sometimes whisking in the faces of the standers by. He died at Brussels Anno Domini 1559. aged 59. Years.

16. Peter Coeck

Born at Alost in Flanders, about the beginning of the 16th Century, was the disciple of Bernard de Bruxels under whom he profited exceedingly: Went into Turkey with some Mer∣chants where he ventured against the Laws of that Countrey, which forbids Images to draw several pieces expressing the manners and customes of the Turks in their Mariages, Burials, solemn Feasts, the Marching and incamping of their Armies, all very pleasant to behold; after his return from Turkey he writ and published some curious Books of Architecture, Geometry, and Perspective, and translated Sebastio Serli out of Italian.

17. Iohn Schoorel

Was born in a Village called Schoorel, near the Town of Alc∣mar in Holland, was the disciple of Mabusius; Having travailed to the Holy land, and viewed the chiefest rarities of Palestine, particularly the river Jordan, of which he took a draught upon the place, and made good use of, in Painting the History of Joshua leading the Israelites through that river, he described the City of Jerusalem, the Holy Sepulcher and other the most remarkable things there, as they stand at this day. Pope Adrian the 6th made him overseer of the Belveder, he Painted the Picture of the said Pope, which is to be seen in the Colledge, which Adrian founded at Louvain. He was well skilled in Poe∣try, Musick and Languages; he died 1562. His picture was drawn by Antonio More, from whence the graven plate is taken.

18. Lambert Lombard

Of the City of Leige, not only attained to a great perfection in Painting, but also to a great skill in the Mathematicks, Geo∣metry and Architecture, as appears by several of his Designs which have been cut in Wood and Copper by very good hands for the use of Architects. Many famous persons were brought up by him, namely Goltzius, Francis Floris, William Cayo, and others. His Paintings are most of them in the Empe∣rors Pallace.

19. Peter Brugel

Was the disciple of Peter Cock, a great observer of the Acti∣ons of Boors and Peasants and very happy in imitating them with his Pencil. In Italy he drew a prospect of the affrightful Alpes, the Torrents, and dismal Precipices there, which was of good use to him in Painting our Saviours Temptation in the Wilderness, where he livelily represents the craggy rocks, and steep Mountains, how some of them hide, as it were, in∣sensibly, their rops in the Clouds, and foggy mists that surround them. His Tower of Babell is a piece much esteemed, as also St. Pauls Conversion, and the Massacre of the Innocents, which he has represented with all the Cruelties of a bloody Tragedy. But his chiefest Excellency, was in Painting Countrey Feasts, and the debaucheries of the Boors. He flourished in the year 1565 and died at Brussels 1570 A person more grave in his dis∣course and actions, then in his works, for what Piece soever he made, though of seriousness and devotion, he could not refrain mingling some facetious humour or other with it, which was the common Mark whereby his pieces were known.

20. William Cayo.

Born at Breda; beloved of all for his virtuous manner of life, he chiefly set himsel to draw faces by the life, which he did with that approbation, that there was scarce a person of Quality of his time in that Countrey, but were drawn by him; That of Cardinal Granvil, and the Prince of Orange, above others are most admired; The Duke of Alva Governor of the Low Countries at that time for the K. of Spaine sent for him to Brussels to draw his picture, which while he was doing, struck with horror (as he confessed to some of his friends a lit∣tle before his death) at the bloody resolutions and actions of the said Duke, he fell sick of a fever and died, the same day that the Counts Egmont and Horne, two of the most Illustrious Per∣sons of the Low Countries lost their heads.

21. Luke Gassel

Born at Helmont in Brabant. It is observed that the Italians generally excel in History and great Figures, the Dutch in Landskips, and small, so this our Painters chief excellency lay in Landskips wherein he knew so admirably well, how to represent the rugged Rocks the rapid Torrents, and the shady Groves, giving to all such a delightful Prospect, and so fit a distance, that his Pieces yeild great pleasure and satisfaction to behold. He died at Brussels about the year. 1560.

22. Francis Floris,

Born at Antwerp. Besides his great Judgment, he was so quick and ready in his designs, that when Philip the 2d of Spaine made his Solemn Entry into Ant∣werp, he in one day Painted a large Victory, Embe∣lished with Tropheys of Armes, and filled with so many other Ornaments, that it was thought to be the work of some months, and the effect of much labor and study; His Pictures had this peculiar Ornament that they were most of them enriched with somthing of Antiquity, suited most ingeniously to his Subject, as may be seen among many others, in his Battle of St. Michael, and Lucifer in the Church of Notredam, at Antwerp, where you see the Devils tumbling headlong from the battle∣ments of heaven, into a deep Abysse of flaming Sulphur, in such a dreadful and horrid manner, as seems rather the work of some in∣fernal Pencil, than of any mortal. At Brussels there is a last Judg∣ment incomparably done. His way of Painting was strong his fleshy colours full of life, and spirit, his Drapery free, yet so artificially composed, as to lessen nothing of the proportion or form of the members. In fine, as he excelled most of his age, he would no doubt have excelled himself, had he not been too much addicted to mispence of his time, in Intemperance and debauchery, wherein he somtimes took a pride to bear away the Bell, he died in the year 1570. or thereabouts, at An∣twerp, in the 50th year of his age.

23. Cornelius de Bie,

Was no Painter himself, but the son of an eminent Painter Adrian de Bie, and a great lover of Art and Ingenuity. Was the first that began the collecting the Heads of this Book, which was afterwards perfected by other hands, in memory where∣of, his own Head is thought not improper to be inserted with the rest.

24. Octavio Venus

Was Born at Leyden, in the year 1558. of a very good Family, his Father being one of the principal Magistrates of that City, brought up in Learning under Cardinal Groesbeck, Bishop and Prince of Liege, un∣der whom he profited exceedingly, in all manner of polite li∣terature. At the same time that he studied Philosophy, Poetry, and Mathematicks; he also exercised himself in Painting, by the advice and assistance of Thadaeus Zuchero, who foresaw some∣thing extraordinary in his blooming years: At length he be∣came renowned nor only for his works, which he wrote in Di∣vinity, History and other Sciences, but for the rare strokes of his Pencil, which recommended him into the service of the Em∣peror, the Duke of Bavaria, and the Elector of Cologne, where he was entertained with respect suitable to his deserts, He was afterwards employed by the Prince of Parma, Governor of the Low Countries, for the King of Spaine who made him his Engi∣neer and Painter. He was of so excellent a disposition, that it be∣ing joined with great Learning and Industry, made him belov∣ed by all the Court. His Picture of the Arch-Duke Albert, and the Infanta Isabella, drawn in full proportion, was sent to K. James the 1st of England. Antwerp has several of his pieces in divers Churches. He had the glory of forming the mind of Rubens, the Apelles of the age. He died at Brussels in the year. 1625. Aged about 71. He left behind him 2 daughters both excellent in their fathers Art, the eldest named Cornelia who was married to a rich Merchant at Antwerp, the other. Ger∣trude, who hath signalized both her love to his memory, and her Pencil, by drawing his Picture in the manner as you see it here represented by the Graver.

25. Adam Van Dort

Was famous for many magnificent Designs, which are to be seen in the hands of several Lovers; was taught to paint by his Father Lambert Van Oort. Antwerp was the place of his Nativity in the year. 1557. And of his burial in the year. 1641.

26. Abraham Blomaert

Was born at a place called Gorcum, in Holland, in the year. 1564. His Father Cornelius Blomaert was a very good Carver and Architect, and having in his house the Designs of several great Masters, particularly of Francis Floris, his son fell to imitating them especially the designs of Floris, making a discovery, by his own observation alone, of the rare secrets of the Art, so that he may be said to have formed himself an Artist. Among the many rare productions of his Pencil, that curious Piece at Ʋtrecht is very remarkable, of Apollo and Diana killing the children of Niobe with their Darts, which the Emperor Rodolphus was so charmed with, that he would not be satisfied till he got him to make another of the same sort. The Count de Lippe had a Banquet of the Gods very ingeniously designed by him, in which the Faces of Venus, Juno and Pallas are most incompara∣ble. That Piece of his must not be forgotten, wherein he has Painted to the life all sorts of Shell-fish and Sea-Monsters, with Tritons riding in Triumph in the midst of tempestuous Billows; and at a great distance Andromeda chained to a rock, and Per∣seus in the Air, hastning to her Deliverance: Nothing can be more pleasant than his Landskips, of which, with other of his Designs, there are several curious Prints to be seen, graven by the hands of Muller, Saenredan and others.

27. Toby Verhaecht

Excellent also at Landskips, was one of Rubens first Masters, of whom he learnt that sort of Painting. He was born at Antwerp in the year 1566. And died in the year 1631. Octavio Venus drew his picture as you see it here represented.

28. Adam Elshamer

Born at Francfort, Anno. 1574. A person of a melancholly temper, delighting for the most part to be amongst Tombs or ruinous places. His works, though few, yet appear to be the pro∣duct of much pains and Iudgment; his painting is strong and master-like. He lived not long, and died poor, yet left a lasting Renown behind him.

29. Guydo Rheno

A great D••signer and Artist. He that sees those fine Prints which were Etched with his own hand, will soon find how great a Master he was. He was born at Bologne, in the year 1574. And died in 1642. This head is after his own Painting.

30. Peter Paul Rubens.

This famous and renowned person, who was the Ornament and Flower of Painters, not only in the Low-Countries, but in all Europe, was born the 28. June 1577 at Antwerp, of a con∣siderable family, upon the feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, whence he had his name. His first Master was Adam Van Noort, one of so ill a temper, that Rubens was forced to leave him, and betake himself to Octavio Venus, by whose good Instructi∣ons having attained perfection in his Art; he traviled at 23 years of age to Italy, where he lived 7 years in the service of the Duke of Mantua, by whom he was employed in several Embassies, amongst others to Rome, to copy some Pieces of the most famous Masters before him, wherein he so exactly imi∣tated the Originals, that his Copies were exceedingly admired. At Rome he made a great Piece for the Church of Notredame, re∣presenting Pope Gregory, and some other Saints, but that prov∣ing too little for the place it was designed for, he drew ano∣ther and sent the former to the Abby of St. Michael at Antwerp, whither he at length returned, and where he setled, and built a stately House, adorning it with abundance of Statues brought from Italy, insomuch that it was esteemed the best Fabrick of that opulent City, both in regard of the curiousness of its Struc∣ture, and the Riches of its inside; amongst which was a Cabinet furnished with such variety of antient Medals, Agates and other choice Rarities, that it might vie with any of the most renowned Princes of Europe. In fine, so great were his ac∣complishments, not only in Painting, but in other Sciences, that the Kings of Spaine, France, and England, in testimony of his Merits, conferred on him their several Orders of Knighthood: His most celebrated Pieces are, That of the Doctors treating of matters of Faith, in the Dominican Church at Antwerp. The Ele∣vation of the Cross, in another Church there. The taking down our Saviour from the Cross, in the Great Church. Several rare Pieces in the Magnificent Church of the Jesuites, The two principal whereof are at the great Altar; One representing St. Ig∣natius exorcising a Demoniack, the other St. Xavier preaching to the Indians: At the great Altar of the Church of the Corde∣liers, is an admirable piece of his, Christ crucified between the two Thieves, as also the Death of St. Francis. His Battle of the Amazons, is an incomparable Piece, wherein the agility and manner of fighting among the antients, is represented so arti∣ficially, as ravishes the beholders. But that which added much to his Fame, was his beautiful embellishments to the Palace of Luxemburgh, in St. Germains at Paris, built by Mary de Medicis, Queen of France, on the right hand as one enters the Gallery, is contained the History of that Queens Life, represented in 21 large Pieces. In which, Art seems to have done its utmost, to surpass Nature; the vastness of its Design being matter of astonishment to the most skilful in the Art of Painting, and the delicacy of its stokes, with that Harmony and Majesty that reigns over the whole, making them despair of ever attaining so great perfecti∣on; Insomuch, that this famous Work has furnished matter for the most elegant Pens of France to celebrate. He was in England

when K. James I. erected that Magnificent Structure called the ••••••quetting house at Whitehall; the whole C••eling whereof as it is to be seen at this day, was Painted and adorned by the hands of this great Master. He Died 30 May 1640. at the same place he was born.

31. Francis Snyders

Born Anno. Dom. 157••. Was the Disciple of Henry Van Ba∣len. He painted Hunting-Pieces, Fish, Fruit and other Designs Incomparably well, for which he was esteemed by several great Princes.

32. William Van Neulant

Born at Antwerp, Anno Dom. 1584. Was reckoned one of the best Poets of his time, was brought up to Painting by Savery at Amsterdam; afterwards he travelled to Rome, and lived 3 years with Paul Brill; during his abode there he painted the Ru∣ines of Rome and other Rarities there with great exactness, and adorned them with many little Figures and Landskips. He also did wonders in Aqud Fortis. After he had spent some time among the Artists at Antwerp, he returned to Amsterdam where he died in the year 1635.

33. Sr. Anthony Wandyck.

Was the excellent disciple of that Excellent Mr. Rubens. He received his birth at Antwerp 22. March 1593. Had his first Instruction under Henry Van Balen, an Italian Painter; but having seen the admirable Works of Rubens, he left all his De∣signs to follow this great Master, as one whom he judged most worthy of his imitation; Rubens charmed with his Wit, con∣cealed nothing from him that was necessary to polish him and make him a skilful Artist, being far from envying or seeking to nip his budding Glory. Whilst he lived with Rubens he painted a great number of Faces, among the rest, that of Rubens his wife, which is esteemed one of the best in the Low Countries. He made him 2 Pieces, one admirably representing the taking of our Saviour in the Garden; the other, the Crowning with Thorns. Having done these for his Master, he travelled into Italy to see Titians Works. At his return he made that Incomparable piece for the Monastery of Augustines at Antwerp, of St. Augustine looking stedfastly up into Heaven, which appears open and all shining with light: The Prince of Orange hearing his fame, sent for him to draw his own Picture, his Princesses and his Childrens, which he did to the great satisfaction of that Prince and all that were Curious. No sooner did these rare Pieces ap∣pear in publick but the most considerable persons in Holland were ambitious to be drawn by the hand of this curious Artist, and the Nobility of England and France sent on purpose for him that they might participate of the same happiness, and so numerous were they that Van dyck not being able with his ut∣most Industry to content them all, drew only those he had most particular esteem for, or such as gratified him most considera∣bly. Being arrived in England he was presented to King Charles the 1st, by Sir Kenelm Dighy: The King not only Knighted him, but as a peculiar M•••••• of his esteem, presented him with a Massy Gold Chain with his Picture set with Dia∣monds, and settled a considerable Pension upon him.

He was a lover of all those of his Countrey, who excelled in any Art, most of whose Pictures he drew with his own hand, and which have been graven from thence by the best Gravers of that time, such as Bolfwaert, Vosterman, Pontius, &c. Some he did himself in Etching. He married one of the fairest and noblest Ladyes of the English Court, Daughter of the Lord Ruthen Earl of Gowry, whose Father being accused of a Conspira∣cy against King James the 1st, his Estate was confiscated, so that he had no great matter of Portion with his Wife, but her Beauty and Nobility. He died the same year that his Mr. Rubens did, and was buried in St. Pauls Church, London.

34. Gerard Segars

Was born at Antwerp, and bred up under Abraham Jansens, at the request of some great lovers of Painting he travelled to Rome, where with great diligence and pains, he copied some of the Works of the most famous Italian Painters, furnishing his own Countrey with what he found most rare amongst them. His Copies were esteemed not much inferiour to the Originals. He was so ravished with those miracles of art he beheld there, that he could not without great difficulty be got thence, till Cardinal Zapata, the King of Spains Embassa∣dour at Rome, with great importunity prevailed upon him to accompany him to Madrid, where he Presented him to the King, who conferred several Honors upon him as a Mark of his esteem. He so nearly resembled the best of the Italian Painters in their greatest Elegance, that when he had finished that incomparable Piece of the Crucifixion of St. Peter, some of the best Judgments presently took it to be done by the hands of Michael Angelo Caravaggio. Most of the Churches at Antwerp are adorned with his Works. He made for the Duke of Newbourgh a picture of the Blessed Virgin, which pleased him so extraordinarily, that he rewarded him with a Gold Chain, and a Medal over and above the full price of his Work. He fixed at last at Antwerp, where he built himself a stately house, and adorned it with a great Collection of curious Paintings gathered from all parts, with great cost and industry, and there peacea∣bly ended his daies in the year 1651. about 60 years of age.

35. Adrian Van Vtrecht.

'Tis observable that no Town, or Province scarce in the Low Countries, has produced so many eminent Painters as that one Town of Antwerp, where this famous person also received his birth 13. January 1599. His chief excellency lay in Fruit-Pieces, Birds, Beasts either as alive or dead.

36. Adam Willaerts

Was born at Antwerp in the year 1577. a neat Painter of Sea-pieces, Ports, Havens, Rivers, Ships, Boats, Barkes, and little Figures in them,

37. Iohn Bavur

Was born at Stratsbourgh, a delicate Painter in Water-co∣lours, the Duke of Brassignano sent for him to Rome and en∣tertained him in his service, as did also the Emperor Ferdinand afterwards: He died. Anno Dom. 1640.

38. Nicholas Knypfer

Was brought up at Lypsick by Emanuel Nysen Anno. 1603. painted all sorts of Figures very artificially. In the year 1630. He we••e to Ʋtrecht and sojourned with the famous Abraham Blomaert where he made several Pieces for the King of Den∣mark and other Princes and persons of Quality.

39. Iohn Bylert

Was born at Ʋtrecht of mean Parentage being but the Son of a Glazier, yet advanced his own fortune by his great merits and industry. His designs are held to be very good, his figures were indifferent large and very soft.

40. Iohn Van Balen

Was born at Antwerp in the year 1611. a good Painter both in great and small, had his first instruction under his father Henry Van Balen.

41. Rowland Savery

Painted Landskips, Beasts, Birds, &c. extraordinary fine. He was born in Flanders and made Painter to the Emperor Rodolphus.

42. Henry Vanderborcht

Was born at Brussels, Anno. 1583. From whence he removed to Frankendale, on occasion of the troubles that broke out in his own Countrey, and afterwards to Frankfort. He learned to paint of Giles Valkenborgh. Was a great lover of Rarities and Antique Curiosities. The Earl of Arundel had him in great esteem for his rare Collection of Antient Pieces, and Medals, as also for his painting.

43. Iacob Backer

A good Painter in great, his Designs are good and his Colours lively, a very good Face-Painter, Was born in the year 1608.

44. Deodate Delmont

Lived sometime with Rubens with whom he travelled to Italy and other parts to increase his experience; Rubens when he parted from him gave him a large Testimonial of his Abili∣ties by a publick Instrument. He was for several years Painter and Architect General to the Duke of Newburgh, and afterwards he served the Arch-Duke Albert and the Infanta Isabella in the like quality, until his death, which hap'ned in the year 1643.

45. David Teniers, Senior,

Born at Antwerp, Anno Dom. 1582. Where having been instructed by such Masters as Rubens and Elshamer, no wonder if he became famous in this Art, he employed his time principally in Landskips and Figures both great and small. He died Anno. 1649.

46. Adrian Van Newlant.

A very good Painter, of small figures and Landskips, there are, several fine Pieces of his doing, extant, containing the Histories of the Old Testament. His first beginning was un∣der Peter Isaac, and Francis Baden at Amsterdam: Where he spent most of his life.

47. Francis of Padoa

An Admirable Painter of great figures, very Copious in his In∣ventions, Painted à Face to a miracle, as appears by the Pictures of the Earl of Arundel and his Countess drawn by him. He lived sometimes at Rome, sometimes at Padoa his native place.

48. Peter Franchoys

Was a Painter of good esteem. Born at Malines. He died 11. August 1654.

49. Iohn Both,

A good Landskip Painter, in which his Prospects are pleasant, the foreparts strong and well coloured, enriched with Figures of men and Beasts, well designed, He lived for the most part at Ʋtrecht the place of his birth.

50. David Beck

Was born Delft in Holland, Painter and of the Bedchamber, to the Queen of Sweden, by whose direction, he drew the Pictures of the most Illustrious persons of Christendom.

51. Gerard Honthorst.

Born at Ʋtrecht anno Do. 1592. Brought up by Abraham Bloma∣ert, was very good in Designs and in Faces. His sufficiency being known to several Cardinals, he was employed by them in painting the Rarities that Italy at that time afforded, He came afterwards into England, where King James the first, made use of him in several Designs to his satisfaction: In Denmark are many fine Pieces of his to be seen, His last employment was in the service of the Prince of Orange at the Hague.

52. Thomas Willeborts Bossaert

Born at Berghen ap Zoom in Brabant An. Dom. 1613. following diligently the examples of the great Painters, that flourished at that time in the same Countrey, he fell a Designing when very young in the Books which were intended him for other Stu∣dies, and preferring his Pencil before all things, he drew his own Picture, (not having then seen 12 years), by the resem∣blance in a looking Glass, so like, that those that saw it were amazed, and this he did before he had the least Instruction, from any one, which his Parents perceiving, sent him to a Master that he might enjoy his own Inclination, but because his first Master was but an indifferent Painter, and no ways meet to satisfy his earnest thirst after Learning, he lest him and betook himself to Gerard Segars, under whose better Instruction Art perfected what Nature began, proving a most accomplished Workman after 4 years practice. Antwerp being a place that was as it were the Seat of Arts and where was a Conflux of many eminent Painters, he thought most worthy of his Resi∣dence, and the fittest place for him to improve in; There he made such a number of Magnificent Pieces, that gave new Splendour to the ancient beauty of that wealthy City. Henry Frederick Prince of Orange, in the year 1642, and his Son, Prince William employed him, in their Service for several years, in which time he made those excellent Pieces, which were to be seen at the said Princes Palace at the Hague, and other parts of Holland. He Painted most Persons of Quality, that were then living. That great Piece of his, is most admi∣rable, at the Hague, where he represents Mars the God of War, on one fide, stirred up, and provoked by the Furies; on the other hand, Peace and concord striving gently to appease and restraine him, among the Figures is a naked woman, whose flesh seems, so natural, so soft and lively, that the Hand is apt to be deceived by the Eye, into an endeavour to feell that which seems to be real Flesh, The Martyrdom of St George in the great Church is also an admirable Piece. He died in the Flower of his Age and his loss was much lamented.

53. Bonaventure Peters

Was born at Antwerp Anno. Dom. 1614. he had a rare Faculty, in Sea Pieces, sometimes representing a Calm Sea, full of goodly Ships and Galleys riding, with Pendants and Streamers display∣ed as it were in Triumph, sometimes an outragious Storm, in which, the surious Winds, and foaming billows seem to con∣tend with each other for Victory, while some shattered bark or sinking Ship is the Sacrifice that must appease their wrath. His Sea-fights are also very natural, where he observes as to his Design, an exact order, and decorum amidst a seeming confu∣sion of Fire, Smoke, blood, Wrecks and Splinters of Ships, &c. He Painted also prospects of Towns Castles &c. very fine.

54. Francis Wouters

Born in the year. 1614 was the disciple of Rubens, a good Painter of Figures in small, chiefly naked, and of Landskips; His Merits promoted him to be Painter to the Emperor Ferdinand the Second, with whose Ambassadour, he travailed into England where, upon the death of the Emperor his Master, in the year 1637, he was made Painter to King Charles the Second when Prince of Wales, and lived a considerable time at London in great esteem.

55. Dauiel Segars,

Brother to Gerard, and born at Antwerp, was a Disciple of John Brugell. He had not scarce his equal among the Anti∣ents or Moderns, for his artificial Painting of Flowers, which look as fine and gay as Nature her self produces them in the Spring; when Flora and Pomona Enamels the Fields and Gardens, his Flowers excelling those which Nature gives in this, that his Roses wither not, but always keep their blush∣ing Beauty, his Violets never lose their purple, nor his Lilleys their snowy white, but have received a sort of Immortality by his Hand: Having a desire to enter himself into the Soci∣ety of the Jesuits; he was admitted into their Convent at Antwerp, and was made a Lay-brother; his Superiours de∣siring to make advantage of his Industry, set him to Paint those Histories of their Society, which are to be seen over the Chairs of Confession in their Church at Antwerp. At Rome he drew the most remarkable Rarities that he saw either in the Palaces or Gardens there: His Works are no where to be found, but in Princes Closets, or amongst the Jesuits. Henry Frederick, Prince of Orange, was so desirous to have some∣thing of his hand, that he sent his Painter Willeborts on pur∣pose to Antwerp to procure some. Segars, by permission of his Superiours, made him a Present of an Oval Bason filled with flowers, upon which he Painted here and there several Butterflies and other little insects, so curiously, that added much to the beauty thereof; The Prince was so pleased with it, that he sent the Society ten massy peices of fiue gold in form of Oranges richly enameled, and a Painters Pallet, and several handles for Pencils all of fine Gold: The Princess of Orange had also presented her the Picture of an Oval bason full of Flowers mingled with Branches of the Orange Tree laden with Oranges, with which she was so taken that She sent the Fathers a Cross of Gold enameled, of above a Pound weight.

56. Peter Snyers

Born at Antwerp 1563. A good Painter of Landskips and battles, both in large and small: Was employed in the service of the Arch-Duke Albert and Isabella and several other Princes.

57. Iames Van Es

An Excellent Painter of Fruit-Pieces, Fish, Birds, and Flow∣ers, which he did extraordinary well to the Life. He lived for the most part at Antwerp, where he was born.

58. Adrian de Bie.

A Painter of good esteem in great figures and other De∣signs: Was born in the year 1594.

59. Adrian Van Venne,

Born at Delft An. Dom. 1599. Had his Instruction at Leyden un¦der Simon Valck and Jerom Van Diest. His chief Excellency lay in Painting in black and white, The King of Denmark, and Prince of Orange had his Painting in great esteem, the latter of whom had several pieces of Hunting done by him: He was also a good Poet as appears by what he writ of that kind.

60. Iames Iordans

Born at Antwerp 19 Mar. 1594. Was brought up by Adam Van Oert his father in Law. An Excellent Painter and De∣signer, particularly in History, Poetick Fables, Devotion and the like; He drew several curious things for the King of Sweden and other Princes.

61. Gaspar de Crayer

Was born at Antwerp in the year. 1585. Received his first Instruction under Raphael Coxie. The most considerable Abbeys in the Low-Countries were adorned with his Paintings: In the the Abbey of Vicoigne is to be seen a Piece of fifteen foot high, contained in a Chace of Marble, representing the Passion, extraordinary fine; in that of St. Denis near Mons, is another setting forth, the manner of beheading that Saint; at Ostend, St. Peters Fishing. Brussels being the ordinary place

of his abode he did many curious things there. His Picture of Prince Ferdinand as big, as the life is reputed, the best of his Preces, which was sent to the King of Spain, Brother of the said Prince; besides the applause, that Crayer received for this rare Piece of work, he was rewarded, with a Gold Chain, and a Medal, with a yearly Salary, during his life; Arch-Duke ••••••pold, being made Governour of the Low Countries, em∣ployed him in divers curious designs, about the year 1648. which he performed, to his entire satisfaction.

62. Balthazar Gerbier

Native of Antwerp Anno. 1592. Was at first Painter to the Duke of Buckingham, and afterward to King Charles I. who Knighted him, and made him his Agent at Brussels, in the year 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And at London Master of the Ceremonies.

63. Leonard Bramer

Born at Delft Anno. Dom. 1596. Lived for some time in Italy, in the Court of the Prince of Farnese, where he wrought several Pieces in great and small, for him and Cardinal Schalie. At his return to Delft, he made several Pieces for his Highness Fred rick Henry then Prince of Orange, Count Maurice of Nas∣sait and other Princes.

64. Cornelius Poulenbourgh

Was born at Ʋtrecht, an admirable Painter in little Fi∣••••••••; Beasts and naked Boys which he made exactly to the life, was curious in painting Ruines, Landskips and Prospects of places for distant. In the year 1637. King Charles the first sent for him into England, where he made several pieces for him and afterwards returned to Ʋtrecht.

65. Erasmus Quelin,

Born at Antwerp 19. Nov. in the year. 1607. Was the disciple of Rubens; a very good Philosopher, great designer and Architect, and an excellent Master in Painting in great and small, and well skilled in Perspective.

66. Iohn Casiers

Born also at Antwerp, in the year. 1603. Brought up under Cornelius de Vos, a rare Master as appears by his Pieces, which he wrought for several Churches, for the King of Spaine, Prince Ferdinand; the Arch-Duke Leopold, and other great Princes.

67. David Balii

Received his Birth at Leyden, which place he liv'd in a con∣siderable time, and made famous by his Works.

68. Herman Saftleven,

Born at Rotterdam, Anno. 16••9. A very good Landskip Painter: At first he Painted Boors, both Men and Women, Farm houses &c. But his chief de light was afterwards wholly in Landskips. His usual abode was at Ʋtrecht.

69. Iohn Van Bronchorst

Born at Ʋtrecht 1603. He learned first of some Painters upon 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but they being but sorry Artists, he reaped no great 〈…〉〈…〉 them, by his great diligence and observation, he be∣came a skilful Master and good Designer, as his work manifest.

70. Abraham Van Diepenbeck,

Born at Boisleduc, surpassed all that were his Contempora∣ties in Painting upon glass (an Art which we have since lost;) afterwards he left that sort of Painting, to imitate his Master Rubens in other curious Designs.

71. Peter Danckers de Ry

Was born at Amsterdam in the year 1605. Was Painter to Ʋlad••laus the fourth King of Poland and Swedeland.

72. Daniel Van Heil

Was horn at Brussels Anno Dom. 1604. A good Painter of Landskips, Cities and Houses on fire, &c.

73. Cornelius Iansens

An Incomparable Face-Painter and a good Designer in great and small, he lived sometime at Amsterdam and in England, where he Painted several curious Pieces for the King and Nobility.

74. Iames d' Artois

Born in Brussels Anno 1613. Where he spent most part of his life, and Painted Landskips so rarely, that they were esteemed the most pleasant of that kind in Flanders.

75. Peter Van Lynt

A very good workman both in great and small Figures, in History as well sacred as profane: Was employed for seven years in the Service of Cardinal Gevasius Bishop of Ostie and other Persons of note: Painted both in Oyle and in Water colours. He was born at Antwerp in the year 1609.

76. David Ryckaert,

Born also at Antwerp Anno 1613. A great Master in Coun∣trey-designs as in Stables, Barnes and such like Edifices which he made in small, these were esteemed worthy the Closet of the Arch-Duke Leopold and other Princes; He had an especi∣al Excellency in representing the light of a Candle.

77. Nicholas de Helt Stocade,

Born at Nimeguen 1614. Lived first at Rome and at Venice, thence he travailed to France, where his Pencil produced such Rarities, that he was made Painter to the French King.

78. Gonzalo Coques,

Born at Antwerp 1618. Was brought up by David Ryckaert Senior, under whom he improved so much, that King Charles the first of England, the Duke of Brandenburgh and Prince of Orange took particular notice of him and employed him: His Designs are excellent, and his pictures in small admirable.

79. David Teniers, Junior,

Was brought up by his father, a most excellent Painter in small figures, and Landskips. The King of Spain, Arch-Duke of Austria, Bishop of Ghent, Prince of Orange, and other Persons of Eminency bought up most of his Works, amongst which that is mightily commended, which he made whilst he was Painter to the Arch-Duke Leopoldus, of the rich Miser in the Gospel, whom he represents, carefully surveying his bags of Gold, and turning over his Deeds and Writings, his wife as carefully sitting by him, and scrupulously weighing each Piece of gold that seems suspitious, in both is to be seen the effects of sordid Covetousness, viz. An anxious care of preserving, without any chearful enjoyment of their great abundance, whilst Death unseen to both stands behind, holding forth an Hour-glass, whose Sand is almost quite run out.

80. Robert Van Hoeck.

Born at Antwerp; Was by the King of Spain made Comptroller of the Fortifications in the Low-Countries. An extraordinary Artist he was in small Figures, his Painting much valued, by many eminent Persons for their rarity.

81. Iohn Baptist Van Heil,

Brother of Daniel Van Heil, a good Painter of pieces of Devotion, Poetical fictions, and Histories, was born at Antwerp in the year 16••9.

82. Iohn Van Thelen

Born at Malines Anno 1618 a Person by birth noble, a dis∣ciple of the famous Daniel Segars, of whom he learned to be a very good Flower-Painter.

83. Peter Meert.

A Painter of no mean reputation, as several of his Pieces to be seen in the Churches and Halls belonging to the several Companies at Brussels do sufficiently testify.

84. Iohn Peters

Was born at Antwerp in the year 1624 where he continued most part of his life, Painting Sea Pieces, Calmes, Tempests and Sea-Fights, also Townes Castles &c. Very finely, much after the manner of his brother Bonaventure Peters.

85. Iohn Vender Hecke

Was a famous Flower-Painter as also of Fruits, Beasts, Birds &c. both great and small; after he had spent some time in Italy, in the service of the Duke of Bracciano, he returned to Antwerp, and there ended his days.

86. Luke Franchoys,

Born at Malines, a skilful and renowned Painter in great Designs, and drawing Persons to the life.

87. Charles Van Savoyen,

Born at Antwerp, lived for the most partin Holland; an ex∣traordinary Artist in small, especially naked Figures, which were much valued: This Head is of his own Etching.

88. Peter Van Bredal,

Was born at Antwerp Anno Dom. 1630. His Paintings are generally very pleasant and sine.

89. Henry Vanderhorcht,

Born at Frankendale in the Palatinate, from whence he re∣moved to Franckfort in the year 1636. The Earle of Arundel passing that way in his Embaisy to the Emperor, took him with him, and employed him in Italy in collecting what rari∣ties could be there procured, and afterwards brought him to England, where he continued in his service till the death of the said Earl; after whose decease he was preferred into the Service of King Charles the second then Prince of Wales

90 Iohn Myssens

Born at Brussels 17 May 1612. His usual residence was at Antwerp, where, besides many things which he Painted to the life with singular Judgment, he traded much in making and selling Prints, in the knowledge whereof he was very skilful; To all which as you see in many of the heads of this book, he usually put his name in this manner, Jo. Meyssens excudit.

91. George Van Son,

An Excellent Painter of Fruit and Flowers at Antwerp, where he was born Anno. Dom. 1622.

92. Iohn Baptist Van Deynum

Born at Antwerp, in the year 1620. His excellency lay most in painting small Figures to the life in Water-colours. He was honoured by the place of his birth, with the command of a Company of their trained-bands in quality of a Captain.

93. Iohn Van Keyssel,

Born at Antwerp 1626. a curious Painter of Flowers, and little Insects, &c. which are much esteemed.

94. Henry Berckmans

Born at Clunder near Willemstadt. Was the disciple of Wou∣verman the famous Battle-Painter at Harlem, and of Thomas Willeborts, and James Jordaens at Antwerp; His Pieces are much valued, especially his Faces by the life: He lived at Middle∣burgh in Zealand.

95. Simon Voilet

Was born at Paris, Jan. 8. 1586. He began to be taken no∣tice of, before he was well fourteen years of age, and travailed when very young to Turkey, at the instance of the Baron de Sancy Ambassadour of France to the Ottoman Port, the said Am∣bassador taking him in his retinue to draw the Grand Seignor's Picture, and the most considerable places about Constantinople; but Voilet at his arrival, finding the difficulty of performing his Design, by reason of the Turkish Laws, was forced to take a quite different method, from the usual practice, and to imprint in his mind by the force of Imagination the Sultans visage, such as he observed it to be, in his attending the Ambassador at his audience, and at other times; which he did with so much Accuracy, that his Draught of it afterwards when retired to his Chamber, according to those Ideas he had before con∣ceived, appeared to resemble the Original as exactly to the life, as if the Sultan had sat on purpose for it: This was look't upon to be so extraordinary an effect of Ingenuity, that he was richly rewarded for it, and was so generally esteemed and applauded by men of Judgment, that divers Copies were made of it by several excellent hands. After this he went to Rome, where he married Virginie Vezzo Vellatrano a Lady of ex∣traordinary beauty, and skilful in Painting, as appears by many excellent Prints, that are to be seen after her Designs. Du¦ring his abode there, he was in good esteem with Pope Ʋrban the 8th, and the Cardinal his Nephew. At length, at the command of Lewis the 13th. his natural Prince, he forsook Rome, and the glories thereof, and returned to France in the year 1628, having left behind him several Monuments of his Pencil, which were held in equal reputation with some of the best in Italy, and placed as a Testimony thereof, in the Church of St. Peters at Rome, where nothing that is common is suffer∣ed to come: His first Imployment in his native Countrey was at the Palace of Luxembourgh, which he adorned with many curious Designs. He Painted several fine things for the Lou∣vre, and for the Galleries and Chappel of Cardinal Richlieu's Pallace, and also in his Castle of Ruell; for the Mareschal d' Effiats fine House at Chilly, for the Queens Baths, and at St. Germains: The King himself was so delighted with the charm∣ing Beauties and Ornaments of his Painting, that he would needs learn of him to handle the Pencil, and often employed his Royal Hand in Drawing of Pictures, which he bestowed a∣mong his Favourites after he had taken the Pleasure of doing them, The King of England had so great a fancy for him, that he endeavoured by many Sollicitations to get him into his Service, but could not prevail; yet Ʋouet sent him some of his Pieces, as an acknowledgment of his respect and vencrati∣on for so great a Prince. He died at the age of 59 years, to the great grief of a multitude of his Disciples, who in imita∣tion of him have raised Painting to as great a pitch, and made it as renowned in France, as in any other part of Europe.

96. Peter Testa,

A famous Roman Painter, excellent in his Designs, especial∣ly his Bacchanals, was unfortunately drowned in the Tyber; whether by accident, or, as some say, that being Melancholly he thre himself in, is uncertain.

97. Peter Breugell

A great Painter of Bows, &c. for his extraordinary hu∣mour in representing several Scenes of Hell, the Fables of Tantalus, Prometheus, Ixi••n, St. Anthonies Temptation, and the like, was Sir-named the Hellish Brugell.

98. Cornelius le Brun.

Chief Painter in Ordinary to the present French King Lewis XIV. Rector and Chancellor to the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture in France: His way of Painting is ge∣nerally very pleasant, his Designs great and noble. Amongst the many glorious Ornaments of his Pencil with which France is at this day enriched; Constantines Triumph over Maxentius; The Stoning of St. Stephen; The Slaughter of the Innocents and the Battle betwixt Darius and Alexander, with Alexan∣ders Triumph, in several Peices, are most considerable; but above all, that of Alexanders going to Darius his Tent, seems to challenge the precedency, in which is an example on the one side, of the Instability of Fortune, in the Mother, Wise, Sister and Daughters of Darius, who from the heighth of happiness and honour, saw themselves in one days time reduced to the extremity of Misery, expecting nothing but Death, or what was worse, Captivity and Slavery; on the other side, of the great Clemency and Moderation of Alexander towards these unfortunate Princesses; the Conqueror, at his first entrance into the Tent, seems to be stopt both by Syfigambis the Mo∣ther of Datius, who throws her self at his Feet, and by a Melancholly Scene, that presents it self to his view, of several dazling Objects that seem in various postures to expect their Sentence; in each Face appears so much Majesty and exquisite Beauty, mingled with an intense Sorrow, so lively, and with such variety expressed, that it is hard to discern which is greatest; and he must be very insensible, that can forbear be∣ing moved by the one, or charmed with the other. Alexan∣der seems at first sight to have laid aside all the roughness of a Soldier, and by the gentleness of his behaviour, and the mildness of his looks, as it were, to promise not only security to their Persons, but all the respect that could be due to their high Birth and Quality; so that from henceforth the Vanquished may be said to be the Victors. In short, this rare Artist seems to have screwed up his Fancy to the highest pitch, to express a vast variety of Ornaments in one Groupe of Figures: The Drapery is all over magnificent and rich, suitable to the Persian Grandeur, and the Luxury that then reigned amongst them; the Colours strong, the Lights large and great upon the foremost Figures, and then by little and little falling softer and decreasing under the Tent, which at the end causes a dark ground, and altogether gives a fine harmony, and an amiable Grace and Lustre to the whole, which appears round as Corregio, elegant as Raphael, and soft as Vandyke used to do.

99. Cornelius Danckers de Ry.

From Painters our Book now leads us to other Artists, no less renowned in their several Arts. He was born at Amster∣dam in the year 1561. For full forty years continued Master-Mason and Architect of that famous City, succeeding his Father Cornelius in that Employ; during which time he finished a great many noble and superb Edifices, to the great Improve∣ment and enlargement of that City: He built the New Port at Harlem, the three New Churches there, the Exchange for Mer∣chants and innumerable other Ornaments to the said place: By great study and experience he invented a way to build Stone-Bridges upon great Rivers, without stopping or divert∣ing the Current of the Stream, a proof whereof he made up∣on the River of Amsterdam, in the year 1632. by a Bridge 200 Feet in length, and standing upon 7 Arches. He died Anno. Dom. 1634, aged 73 years.

100 Cornelius Cort

both in Holland, in the year 1536. an admirable Master in the art of Graving, which tho it be the same with Painting, as to us Design, yet differs very much from it in the Practice; for the one is performed by the gentle touches and pliableness of the Pencil, the other by the sharpness of the Steel and a steady hand; Painting has its perfection in the natural application of the Colours to the body they should represent, the other only in describing its Contours, Relievos, Lights and Shadows, and though it be reduced only to ••lack and white, or rather as Artist call it, to Clair-obsture; yet it represents the Superficies of bodies their Form and Roundness, with no less beauty, force and elegance, then the best of Pictures. He made Italy for along time, the place of his residence where he graved the Designs of Raphael Ʋrbin, Titian and others. He died at Rome. Anno. Dom, 1578.

101. Theodore Corenhert

Was also an excellent Engraver after the Designs of Martin Hemskirk and others. Was born at Amtterdam, in the year 1522. Was also a good Poet: He died Anno. Dom. 1590.

102 Henry de Keyser,

Born at Ʋtrecht in the year 1565. Was Architect of Amsterdam, and one of the best Carvers in Holland, of which that Magnifi∣cent Tomb of the Vrince of Orange at Delft and the Town-Hall, of Amsterdam are sufficient Iustances. He died in Amsterdam. 15. May 1621.

103. Iohn Sadeler

Was born a Brussells in the year 1550. attained to a great excellency in Graving, by his own meer Industry without any to instruct or direct him. His performance is with much Sweetness and subtilty, as appears by what he has done for Martin de Vos and others. In the year 1588, he went to Franck fort and after he had spent some time there, he remov∣to Munichen where the Duke of Bavaria honoured him with a Gold Chain and a Medal. In the year 1595, he went to Ve∣nice where he died of a fever Anno Dom. 1600.

104. Ralph Sadeler.

Brother of John. Born also at Brussells Anno Dom. 1555. a very fine Graver as may be seen in his Works, particularly in the Jesuit Raderus his lives of the Bavarian Saints, a book chiefly remarkable for its enrious Cutts; also the Book of Hermits, which he and his brother John together graved. He sometimes painted also as well as graved. He accompanied his brother John in his travels to Munichen, and to Venice in which place he also died.

105. Iames Matham

Son in law to the famous Henry Golizius, of whom he learnt to Grave, and attained to great perfection in that art. Was boru at Harlem 15. October 1571. and died 20. January 1631.

106. Iames Francquart.

A person of an indefatigable Spirit, so thirsty of Honour that he applied himself with incredible diligence to Painting, Ar∣chitecture, Geometry and Poetry all at one time. After he had satisfied his curiosity in viewing the rarities of Rome, he was chosen Architect to the Arch-Duke Albert and the Infanta Isa∣bella, In which Employ, he continued till the death of the said Arch-Dake; after whose decease he employed the utmost se∣crets of his art and skill in erecting to his Memory that stately Maus••leum which is to be seen in the Church of St Gudule in Brussels, a work so noble, and magnificent that it was thought worthy to be the subject of a Book, containing a description thereof, and the Pomp of his Funeral Solempnity, in Copper Cuts. He was likewise Architect and Ingenier for the Town of Brussels: The form of that magnificent Church of the Jesuits which stands there, and is reputed one of the best contrived in the Low-Countres, is of his Design and ordering. Being a man of no less subtilty in Contrivance and Invention then he was industriou, she invented a little steel Engine, which with the noise it would make by the motion of certain Springs at a determinate time, should wake him at what hour of the night soever, he intended to rise, being set for it accordingly; and at the same time would light his Candle, by means of a little Match dipt in brimstone, which took fire at the striking of the Machine: After he had lived long time at Brussels in much Splendour and Reputation, he died to the great grief of all true Lovers of art in the Low-Countries.

107. Giles Sadeler.

Nephew to John and Raphael was the best Engraver of them all, though they are not without their due praise, inso∣much that he was esteemed worthy to be Eugraver to three of the German Emperors successively, to wit, Rodolphus, Mat∣thias, and Ferdinand the Second, and was not only an incom∣parable Graver, but a very good Painter, oftentimes Design∣ing and drawing to the life with his Pencil, several things which he afterwards engraved. He lived at Prague in Bohemia, and there died, Anno Dom. 1629.

108. Henry Hondius,

A good Engraver and Defigner, born at Duffell in Brabant in the year 1573. He was by extract Noble: Having an incli∣nation to this art, he set himself to follow the Iustructions of John Wterx, He studied likewise the Mathematicks, Geogra∣phy, Perspective, Architecture and Fortification under the directi∣ons of the samous Samuel Marelois and others, in all which he attained to good experience, as appears by his Prints, He lived usually at the Hague.

109. Peterd Iode, Senior

Was born at Antwerp, and brought up by Goltzius; a rate Engraver and excellent Designer; dwelt for a long time at Rome, where he made several curious Designs. In the year 1601, he returned to Antwerp his native place where he died 9. August 1634.

110. Paul Pontius

Was born at Antwerp in the year 1603. Was first brought up by Luke Vosterman, after which he lived with Rubens. Was an admirable Artist as appears by many of Rubens his Designs, Vandyke's Heads, and other curious Prints engraven by him.

111. Luke Faydherbe

Was a famous Statuary and Architect, brought up by Ru∣bens, under whose Instruction, none ever came but proved excellent, in some Art or other. He was born at Malines, where hsi abode for the most part was.

112. Peter d' Iode, Junior.

Born 22. November 1606. at Antwerp, where he lived under his Fathers instruction, proved a very delicate Graver; at Paris he and his father together engraved some choice Pieces for Monsieur Bon-Enfant and the Sieur L' Imago. Many fine Prints are to be seen of his doing after Rubens, Vandyke and others.

113. Iames Callot

Was a Gentleman of good esteem in Lorrain, born at Nancy in the year 1594. His father was Herauld at Armes to the Duke of Lorraine. In his youth he learned to Grave of one Croce, who made the stamps, by which the money of that Countrey was coined, after which he sojourned for some time with a Painter of Lorraine of sufficient ability; who taught him to design well; by whose Instructions having attained a com∣petent skill and Judgment, he travailed, in Company of some Gentlemen of Holland, to Italy, and dwelt a considerable time at Rome; there he applied himself to Etching, finding that more easy to him, and his performance in it freer then Graving; Which he did with so much application and industry, that his works were finished to a Miracle, and became the admiration of all, that had eyes to penetrate into the delicacy and beauty of them: The Duke of Tuscany one of the most curious and magnificent Princes, at that time in Europe, sent for him to Florence, and lodged him in his Palace, near his own Apartment, that he might have the satisfaction of seeing those delightful Curiosities, he was continually at work upon. Here it was, that he Graved, The great Market place at Flo∣rence, with so much art and skill that it is not easy to give it it's due commendation: His Miseries of War, The History of our Saviours passion, The Temptation of St Anthony, with a multi∣tude of others, show that he was the Miracle of an Artist for Miniature, and had not his fellow in this kind: He was after∣wards sent for home, by the Duke of Lorraine, where he marri∣ed a Lady of great beauty, rich, and young, with whom he lived the residue of his life in much content and satisfaction. He died much lamented at Nancy 23. Mark 1635. Aged 41. Years, and was buried in the Cordeliers Church, where his loving Consort caused a sumptuous Marble Tomb to be erected to his memory, with his Effigy and Coat of armes viz. Five golden stars in a field azure.

114. Leo Van Heil,

A famous Architect at Brussels, where he was born, Anno. Dom. 1605.

115. Peter Verbrugghen

Was renowned for his rare faculty in Carving all manner of

figures in Stone: He lived at Antwerp the place of his birth.

116. Simon Bosboom,

Born at Emden, in the year 1614. a very good Architect and Mason in the service of the Elector of Brandenburgh.

117. Wencestaus Hollar,

Born at Prague in Bohemia, 1607. Was much addicted to working in Miniature and Erching, wherein he proved fa∣mous. The Earl of Arundell in his return from Vienna, brought him with him to England, where he lived for some time till the Wars broke out, and then he retired to Antwerp, and there died.

118. Aertus, Quilinus

Born at St. Trude in the Countrey of Liege; An Excellent Architect and Carver in Stone, Wood &c. lived at Antwerp.

119. Stephen de la Belle.

Native of Florence in the year 1614 a very good Painter in Water-colours, and of rare performance in Etching: Was a per∣son, of great Judgment, and fruitful Invention. Had the hap∣piness to be brought up by the incomparable Callot. His Prints are to be seen in great abundance.

120. Dirick Corenhert.

Brother of Theodore by are as well as nature. Both living for along time together, and performing Designes of like nature

121. Richard Clolin.

Born in the year 1627. A good Geographer, Mathematicion and Graver. His chief business consisted in making and grav∣ing Maps and Geographical Tables.