Bruegel, Jan, the Elder

(born 1568, Brussels—died Jan. 13, 1625, Antwerp) Flemish painter and draftsman, second son of Pieter Bruegel. Early in his career he went to Italy, where he painted under the patronage of Cardinal Federigo Borromeo. After returning to Antwerp in 1596, he enjoyed a highly successful and prestigious career. In 1608 he was appointed court painter to the archdukes of Habsburg, regents of the southern Netherlands. He is known for his small-scale landscapes and exquisite flower paintings, all painted in a miniaturistic style on copper or panel. His skill at depicting delicate textures earned him the nickname “Velvet.” He often collaborated with other artists, including his friend Peter Paul Rubens. His sons, Jan the Younger and Ambrosius, were also painters.