Pieter Claesz (1597-1660)
Pieter Claesz (1597-1660) was born in Berchem, near Antwerp and not in Germany as has been thought previously. It is interesting to know that he was the father of Nicolas Berchem, the Italianising landscape painter. Claesz was also the uncle of the painter Willem Claesz Heda. Many important still life specialists where his pupil.
His compositions, also called ‘ontbijtjes’ or breakfasts are set up following subtle and geometric rhythms. They have very often a more or less concealed ‘Vanitas’ element, and are held in a restraint but efficient colour scale. He gives much attention to the effects of light, the perspective and the surface texture. He is one of the leading still life painters of his generation.
Art valuations - Pieter Claesz (1597-1660)
His work is much sought after and prices may vary,- according to date, quality and preservation, between € 80 000 and 500 000. High prices are found for works throughout his career: his early period, when he was maybe more accurate and finished is valued very high, but also his later works are highly priced. Simple and almost monochrome compositions are much valued and may be worth even more than the more abundant paintings.
Bigli Art Broker, artworks by Pieter Claesz (1597-1660)
Pieter Claesz
Still life, signed and dated 1644 (sold)
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