Jan Bruegel the Elder

A Painter between Two Periods

Jan Bruegel the Elder is one of the most interesting artists working at the turn of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The second son of Pieter Bruegel the Elder, he was known as `Flower Bruegel' and `Velvet Bruegel.' The incredibly detailed accuracy of his works, which were painted in jewel-like colors, made him one of the most respected and financially successful painters of his time. The film is based on the results of more than ten years' research by Dr Klaus Ertz, author of a critical catalog of Bruegel's works. The life and work of this Flemish artist is described mainly through his paintings. His fruitful cooperation with other artists such as Rubens, Joos de Momper the Younger, Hendrik van Balen, Hans Rottenhammer and others is examined in depth, while shots of the town and countryside of modern Flanders enable us to make both artistic and biographical comparisons. The wealth of material in the commentary is structured by headings which emphasize the concepts central to his work, such as scenes of the world, images of village life, new landscape compositions, flowers, scenes set in paradise, mythology and allegories. Contemporary music, anecdotes and quotations contribute entertainingly to our understanding of Jan Bruegel's importance. The film touches on the controversial theme of the attribution and authenticity of many works, including the distinctions between a copy, an artistic interpretation and a forgery.

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