Pieter Van Laer Dutch painter of the early 17th century Country: Netherlands

1. Pieter van Laer: Pioneer of Genre Painting and Plein Air
2. Co-Founder of the Bentvueghels
3. Artistic Apprenticeship and Influences
4. Champion of the Common Man
5. Pioneer of Plein Air Painting
6. Recognition and Legacy

Pieter van Laer: Pioneer of Genre Painting and Plein Air

Pieter van Laer, a Dutch painter born in the early 17th century, played a pivotal role in the art world of his time.

Co-Founder of the Bentvueghels

Laer was a co-founder of the Bentvueghels, a society of Dutch and Flemish artists in Rome. This group shared a bohemian lifestyle and celebrated the genre of "bambocciata" or "bambochade," depicting everyday scenes of Roman street life. In Italy, Laer earned the nickname "Bamboccio" for his mastery of this style.

Artistic Apprenticeship and Influences

Laer studied under the renowned landscape painter Esaias van de Velde. Upon arriving in Rome, he settled in the parish of Santa Maria del Popolo. His work influenced subsequent artists, such as Johannes Lingelbach, Michelangelo Cerquozzi, and Viviano Codazzi. He was also acquainted with prominent painters Jan Both, Claude Lorrain, and Nicolas Poussin.

Champion of the Common Man

Van Laer's "bambocciate" celebrated the lives of ordinary people, focusing on their caricaturesque features and dramatic gestures. He broke away from the traditional preference for idealized subjects, showcasing the beauty in the grotesque. His work had a significant impact on artists like Michael Sweerts.

Pioneer of Plein Air Painting

Laer was among the first artists to practice painting outdoors, capturing the natural light and atmosphere of his surroundings. This approach allowed him to create more realistic and vibrant works.

Recognition and Legacy

Despite facing criticism from the Accademia di San Luca for his unconventional style, van Laer's "bambocciate" gained widespread recognition throughout Europe. Collectors in Italy and Flanders sought his works. Through his art, van Laer elevated the depiction of everyday life to the level of high art.