Cornelis Bega was born into an artistic and wealthy family in
Haarlem. His mother had inherited half of her father’s estate who
was a successful Mannerist painter, and his father was a gold and
silversmith. He studied under Adriaen van Ostade and expanded upon
his master’s style to create his own dark, psychological paintings.
He enjoyed painting taverns, domestic interiors, and villages with
ranges of characters. Bega traveled throughout Germany, Switzerland,
and France from 1653 to 1654. From 1660 to his death, Bega’s
paintings became more colorful and focused on details and textures.
He returned to Haarlem and joined the Guild of Saint Luke. Bega
probably died from the plague in 1664.
Tavern Scene
Discuss Art
Please note: site admin does not answer any questions. This is our readers discussion only.