Jan Davidsz. de Heem

Jan Davidsz. de Heem (1606-1683/1684) grew up in Utrecht, where he was apprenticed to floral still-life artist Balthasar van der Ast.

In 1626, he moved to Leiden, where he painted monochrome still lifes employing one or at the most two tints.
De Heem moved to Antwerp after 1631. Here his paintings became increasingly colourful and elegant.

He also changed his theme, concentrating more on fruit and flowers. Jan Davidsz de Heem's work was popular among the buying public and among fellow artists. His many pupils and followers included Abraham Mignon.