Alexander Coosemans Paintings


Alexander Coosemans was a Flemish Baroque painter known for his still lifes and landscapes. Born in 1627 in Antwerp, Belgium, Coosemans worked in the tradition of Northern European still-life painting, which was characterized by a high degree of detail and emphasis on texture and surface.

Coosemans trained under the prominent still-life painter Jan Davidsz. de Heem, who had a significant influence on his style and technique. Coosemans’ own work often featured lavish arrangements of flowers, fruits, and other objects, displaying a masterful use of color and composition. His paintings also sometimes included small animals or insects, which added a sense of life and impermanence to his compositions.

Despite his skill, Coosemans did not achieve the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries during his lifetime. However, his work was well-regarded by collectors and connoisseurs, and he was able to build a successful career as an artist.

After his apprenticeship, Coosemans traveled to Italy, which was customary for artists of his time. The Italian journey was influential in his development as an artist as he was exposed to the works of the Italian masters. Upon his return to Antwerp, he became a master in the Antwerp Guild of Saint Luke in 1651.

Coosemans' works are noted for their dramatic lighting and strong sense of texture. He was particularly adept at capturing the translucence of materials such as glass and the reflective properties of metal objects. His contribution to the still-life genre is marked by a distinct clarity and precision, which is evident in his carefully arranged compositions.

Alexander Coosemans died in 1689 in Antwerp. Today, his works can be found in various museums and private collections, appreciated for their technical skill and their place in the evolution of still-life painting in the Flemish tradition. His legacy continues to be studied by art historians and enjoyed by art enthusiasts who admire the richness and detail of Baroque still lifes.