Cornelis (Pietersz.) Bega Paintings

Cornelis Bega, whose full name was Cornelis Pietersz. Bega, was a Dutch artist born in 1620 in Haarlem, Netherlands. He was the son of sculptor and architect Pieter Cornelisz. and Maria Cornelisdr. Bega, who came from a well-connected family. His grandfather was the painter Cornelis Cornelisz van Haarlem, a significant figure in Dutch art, which provided Bega with an artistic lineage and early exposure to the art world.

Bega is best known for his genre scenes, depicting everyday life in the 17th century with an emphasis on the lower classes. His works are characterized by their use of chiaroscuro and a warm palette, focusing on intimate indoor scenes with figures engaged in various activities such as drinking, smoking, or music-making. He was particularly adept at capturing the textures of materials and the subtle expressions of his subjects.

He initially trained under Adriaen van Ostade, a master of the Haarlem genre scene, who had a profound influence on Bega's style and subject matter. Despite their similarities, Bega developed his own distinct approach, often imbuing his works with a more genteel atmosphere compared to the often raucous scenes of his teacher.

Bega was a member of the Haarlem Guild of St. Luke, which he joined in 1642. His works were popular in his time and were collected by contemporary connoisseurs and art lovers. Throughout his career, he produced a significant number of paintings, drawings, and etchings, which were well-regarded for their fine detail and quality.

Cornelis Bega's life was relatively short; he died in 1664 during a plague epidemic that swept through Haarlem. His art, however, left a lasting impression, and he is remembered as a skilled chronicler of Dutch daily life in the Golden Age. Today, his works can be found in various museums and collections around the world, testament to his enduring legacy in the realm of Dutch genre painting.