Deaths on March 3

Michael Coxcie, Flemish painter (b. 1499)

Step back into the vibrant artistic world of the 16th century, and you'll encounter a figure of immense talent and influence: Michiel Coxie the Elder. Also known as Michiel Coxcie the Elder or Michiel van Coxcie, and Latinized as Coxius, this Flemish master (1499 – 3 March 1592) was far more than just a painter. He was a versatile artist whose skills spanned altarpieces, portraits, draughtsmanship, and even the design of intricate stained-glass windows, tapestries, and prints. His profound impact on European art earned him a distinguished title from his contemporaries: "the Flemish Raphael."

Early Life and Artistic Development

Born in Mechelen, Flanders, in 1499, Michiel Coxie's early life laid the foundation for a career that would bridge the artistic traditions of the Northern and Southern Renaissance. While specifics of his initial training are not detailed in historical records, it's clear he developed a strong command of his craft early on. The pivotal period in his artistic development, however, was a transformative decade spent in Italy. During these ten crucial years, Coxie immersed himself in the heart of the Italian Renaissance, diligently studying the works of its titans: Raphael, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. This intense period of learning and observation of classical Antiquity and Renaissance masters left an indelible mark on his burgeoning style, equipping him with an innovative approach that would soon captivate patrons across Europe.

A Painter of Emperors and Kings

Upon his return from Italy, Coxie quickly established himself as a highly sought-after artist. He worked for powerful patrons not only in the principal cities of Flanders but also ascended to the highest echelons of European aristocracy. His talent was recognized by two of the most formidable rulers of the era: he successively served as court painter to Emperor Charles V and later to his son, King Philip II of Spain. This prestigious role speaks volumes about his esteemed reputation and the quality of his work, which adorned royal palaces and sacred spaces alike. His output was incredibly diverse, reflecting his mastery across various mediums, from the grandeur of altarpieces to the intimate detail of portraits, and from preparatory drawings to the designs for large-scale decorative arts.

The "Flemish Raphael": A Lasting Legacy

Few artists receive a nickname that so perfectly encapsulates their standing, but for Michiel Coxie, "the Flemish Raphael" was a title proudly bestowed and richly deserved. His contemporaries, deeply impressed by his artistry, perceived his skill as being on par with the Italian master himself. This wasn't merely flattery; it was a profound appreciation for how Coxie successfully integrated the monumental grandeur and classical ideals he absorbed in Italy with the meticulous detail and rich color palettes characteristic of Northern European art. His innovative style, marked by bold compositions and a refined classicism, resonated deeply, creating a unique synthesis that defined his artistic identity and set him apart.

Bridging Eras: Influence and Innovation

Michiel Coxie's significance extends far beyond his own lifetime. His forward-thinking approach and powerful compositions served as a wellspring of inspiration for subsequent generations of Flemish artists. Notably, his influence can be seen in the foundational work of none other than Peter Paul Rubens, a giant of the Flemish Baroque. Coxie played a crucial role as an artistic link, providing a vital bridge between the traditions of early Netherlandish painting – known for its groundbreaking realism and detailed symbolism – and the dynamic, dramatic aesthetics of the Flemish Baroque. He effectively modernized Flemish art by injecting it with the spirit and techniques of the Italian High Renaissance, ensuring a continuous evolution of artistic expression in the Low Countries.

Master Copyist: Preserving Iconic Works

Beyond his original creations, Michiel Coxie also distinguished himself as a master copyist, a practice that was highly valued in an era before widespread photographic reproduction. His meticulous reproductions allowed important artworks to be studied and appreciated by a wider audience, and sometimes even preserved the memory of originals that would later be lost or damaged. Among his most renowned copies were faithful renditions of the monumental "Ghent Altarpiece" by the van Eyck brothers and Rogier van der Weyden's poignant "Descent from the Cross." These copies were not mere imitations but were themselves masterpieces, executed with such precision and understanding of the originals that they further cemented his reputation as an artist of extraordinary skill and reverence for his predecessors.

Frequently Asked Questions about Michiel Coxie

Who was Michiel Coxie?

Michiel Coxie the Elder (1499-1592) was a highly influential Flemish painter, draughtsman, and designer during the 16th century. He was known for altarpieces, portraits, stained-glass windows, tapestries, and prints.

What was his famous nickname?

He was widely known by his contemporaries as "the Flemish Raphael."

Why was he called "the Flemish Raphael"?

This nickname was given due to his exceptional skill and because his style, infused with his studies of classical Antiquity and Italian Renaissance masters like Raphael, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, was considered on par with the Italian master by his peers.

What significant works did he copy?

Coxie produced well-known copies of iconic works, including the "Ghent Altarpiece" by the van Eyck brothers and Rogier van der Weyden's "Descent from the Cross."

What was his lasting impact on art history?

Michiel Coxie served as a critical artistic link between early Netherlandish painting and the Flemish Baroque. His innovative style, influenced by his time in Italy, inspired future generations of artists, notably Peter Paul Rubens, and helped modernize Flemish art.