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Peter LelyFamous master of Baroque portraiture
Date of Birth: 14.09.1618
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
Biography of Peter Lely
Peter Lely, a renowned portrait artist of the Baroque era, was born on September 14, 1618, in Soest, Westphalia. When his family moved to Holland, Peter became an apprentice to the Haarlem painter Peter de Grebber. In 1637, he joined the Guild of Saint Luke and began working independently under the pseudonym Lely.
Influence of Van Dyck and Early Works
In 1641, Peter Lely traveled to England, where he was strongly influenced by the Flemish painter Anthony van Dyck. He started his career here by painting religious and mythological subjects, as well as landscapes and historical scenes. Soon, the young artist gained fame as a remarkable portraitist, receiving a multitude of commissions. Inspired by the great Rubens, Lely chose to focus solely on painting the faces of his models, leaving the completion of the rest of the canvas to his apprentices.
Famous Works and Legacy
Among Peter Lely's most famous works are portraits of royal family members, politicians, and courtiers, known as the "Windsor Beauties." He also painted a series of ten portraits of admirals and captains who fought under the Duke of York in the Anglo-Dutch Wars, which became known as the "Flagmen of Lowestoft." Today, these masterpieces adorn various British museums, including the National Portrait Gallery and the Maritime Museum in Greenwich.
Death
Peter Lely passed away on December 7, 1680, leaving behind a significant artistic legacy and a lasting impact on the art world.
