Maerten de Vos, also known as Martin de Vos, was a Flemish painter born in Antwerp in 1532. He was part of the Northern Renaissance and is known for his history paintings, altarpieces, and portraits. De Vos came from a family of artists; his father, Pieter de Vos, and his brothers were also painters. He trained under his father and later in the workshop of the prominent Antwerp painter Pieter Coecke van Aelst. He further refined his skills in Italy, where he spent a significant period from 1550 to 1558, studying the works of Italian masters such as Tintoretto and Paolo Veronese, which greatly influenced his style.
Upon returning to Antwerp, de Vos became a master in the Guild of Saint Luke and established his workshop. His Italian experience is evident in his use of color and composition, which stood out among his contemporaries. De Vos was also influenced by the work of Pieter Bruegel the Elder, another renowned Flemish artist. Over time, de Vos developed a distinctive style that incorporated both Italianate elements and the Northern European painting tradition.
Martin de Vos was a prolific artist, and his workshop became one of the most influential in Antwerp. He worked on numerous commissions for local churches and patrons. His religious works often featured complex narrative scenes with numerous figures, reflecting his skill in composition and storytelling. De Vos also created mythological paintings and was adept at engravings, which helped disseminate his work more widely.
De Vos's influence extended beyond his own workshop. He trained several apprentices who would go on to become successful painters in their own right. His sons, Daniel and Maerten the Younger, continued the family tradition of painting. Maerten de Vos died in Antwerp in 1603, leaving behind a legacy as one of the leading Flemish painters of the late 16th century. His works can be found in various museums and collections around the world, showcasing the enduring appeal of his artistic vision.