Anthonis van Dyck (1599-1641). One of the most important Flemish painters. Initially, like most painters of his time, he painted mainly mythological and religious scenes. Later, at the age of thirty, he specialized in portraits (in Rubens’ style). He painted in a subtle range of colours, often contrasted with a black background. He placed his models between different architectural elements or curtains and painted them in magnificent clothes. The composition was very dynamic for the time, the anatomy of his figures sophisticated. The style of his portraits differs greatly from his mythological paintings. His portraits are a little melancholy, closed and reserved, unlike the spectacular and dramatic canvases with mythological themes.