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Anthony van Dyck, self-portrait (1615-1616) - © The Rubens House, Antwerp © www.lukasweb.be - Art In Flanders vzw
Painter: | Peter Paul Rubens |
Hello. My name is Anthony van Dyck (1599-1641).
In all modesty, I must say I was a portrait painter of some distinction. However, my master Rubens was the real genius. I was his favourite student and he strongly believed in my talent.
Some say I even became his first serious competitor in Antwerp as my technique was flawless. For a long time, people believed Rubens painted my portrait. It was only after a recent technical investigation that it was revealed to be a self-portrait. My portrait is on display at the Rubens House.
Later on, I painted many portraits (and self-portraits), often with the short, pointed beard then in fashion. That kind of beard was much later referred to as a “Van Dyke” or “Van Dyke beard”.
By the way, you may call me ‘Sir Anthony’, as I was knighted by King Charles I in 1623. The king was most passionate about art and very generous. He appointed me as his court painter and provided me with a house on the River Thames. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to grow old. On 9 December 1641, at the age of 42, I died after a long illness. I was buried in St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.