Hendrik Goltsius Dutch artist. Country: Netherlands

1. Hendrik Goltzius: A Dutch Mannerist Artist
2. Early Life and Education
3. Marriage and Travels
4. Artistic Career

Hendrik Goltzius: A Dutch Mannerist Artist

Hendrik Goltzius was a renowned Dutch artist and a representative of the Mannerist style. Born in the Netherlands, he suffered a tragic accident during his childhood when he fell onto burning coals, severely disfiguring his right hand. Despite this setback, Goltzius went on to create several remarkable graphic studies of his maimed hand.

Early Life and Education

Goltzius received his early training in the art of stained glass from his father and later pursued studies in engraving. In 1577, he settled in Haarlem, where he continued to develop his artistic skills.

Marriage and Travels

At the age of 21, Goltzius married a much older but wealthy widow, which granted him financial independence. However, in 1590, he fled from his wife and embarked on a journey through Germany and Italy. During his travels, Goltzius discovered the works of Raphael and was particularly impressed by the art of Michelangelo. He even left behind a portrait of Jambolonja, showcasing his talent during this period.

Artistic Career

In 1600, Goltzius became the head of the Haarlem Academy of Painting. It was during this time that he began to focus more on painting and produced a series of remarkable works, including "Danaë" in 1603, among others. However, his contemporaries knew him best as a virtuoso engraver. He engraved paintings by renowned artists of the time, such as Bartholomeus Spranger and Cornelis van Haarlem. Some of Goltzius' works can still be found in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.