Cornelis Schut I
Cornelis Schut I was a Flemish painter and engraver born in Antwerp in 1597 and died in the same city in 1655. He was a prominent figure of the Baroque movement, known for his dynamic compositions and dramatic use of light and shadow. Schut trained under the tutelage of Peter Paul Rubens, whose influence is evident in his work. He became a master in the Antwerp Guild of Saint Luke in 1618 and later traveled to Italy, where he was further influenced by the works of Caravaggio and the Carracci. Upon returning to Antwerp, Schut contributed significantly to the decoration of churches and public buildings, leaving a lasting impact on the artistic landscape of the region. His works are characterized by their vigorous movement and emotional intensity, hallmarks of the Baroque style.