An Frans Van Orizzonte (see Bloemen) Paintings

Jan Frans van Bloemen, also known by his Italian nickname 'Orizzonte', was a Flemish landscape painter who was born on May 12, 1662, in Antwerp, present-day Belgium. He hailed from a family of artists and was the brother of Pieter van Bloemen, who was known for his battle scenes and animal paintings, and Norbert van Bloemen, who specialized in genre scenes. Jan Frans van Bloemen's nickname 'Orizzonte' or 'Horizon' refers to his mastery in painting expansive landscapes with broad horizons.

Van Bloemen received his early training in Antwerp, which was then one of the major centers for art and culture in Europe. He was a pupil of the landscape painter Antoon Goubau, who was influenced by the Italianate style of landscape painting that was popular in the Low Countries during the 17th century, following the tradition of artists like Paul Bril and Jan Asselijn.

In 1689, van Bloemen moved to Rome, where he would stay for the majority of his life. His landscapes, characterized by their classical composition, harmonious colors, and serene atmosphere, reflect the influence of the Roman Campagna, the countryside around Rome that has inspired countless artists. Van Bloemen became a member of the Bentvueghels, an association of mainly Dutch and Flemish artists working in Rome, and it is here that he was given the nickname 'Orizzonte'.

Throughout his career, van Bloemen was renowned for his ability to merge the Flemish tradition of landscape painting with the Roman landscape tradition. His works often featured historical and biblical scenes set in these idyllic landscapes. He was also adept at painting staffage, the figures in a landscape, which were sometimes painted by other artists.

Jan Frans van Bloemen's work had a significant influence on other landscape painters and he played a role in the development of the 18th-century Italianate landscape. His paintings were sought after by collectors and patrons during his lifetime and he received commissions from many important figures, including members of the aristocracy and the Catholic Church.

Van Bloemen passed away on June 13, 1749, in Rome. His legacy continued through his pupils and the many artists who were influenced by his serene and poetic approach to landscape painting. Today, his works can be found in major art museums and collections around the world, and he is remembered as one of the key figures in the development of landscape painting in Europe.