Anthony van Dyck

Happy Birthday Anthony van Dyck!! Flemish Baroque painter, born in 1599, van Dyck was an apprentice of Rubens. Van Dyck painted for the royal court, primarily King Charles. He was known also for his innovations in watercolor and etching, painting mythology and biblical scenes as well. He dressed flamboyantly, as evidenced in the self-portrait here, where he holds the gold medal given to him by King Charles I and a sunflower, which is said to represent royalty.