Kerstiaen de Keuninck

Bio

This master, the son of a wealthy linen merchant, was probably born in Courtrai (Kortrijk) about 1560. An apprenticeship with Hans Bol (1534-l593) is likely, since his early work betrays the influence of this master. In l580/8l he became a full member of the Antwerp St. Luke’s Guild. The name of De Keuninck’s wife remains unknown, but a son, also called Kerstiaen, is documented as being active in the workshop of Jan Brueghel the Younger. De Keuninck had a flourishing workshop with several pupils. His work is firmly rooted in the Flemish landscape tradition, albeit with a distinctive touch of his own. His dramatically modelled trees and the almost tangible rays of light in his landscapes can be considered as a trademark of the artist.