Jan Mandijn

Jan Mandijn or Jan Mandyn (c. 1500, Haarlem – c. 1560, Antwerp) was a Renaissance painter of the Low Countries, who worked in Antwerp after 1530. He is known for his works with subject matter and style reminiscent of Hieronymus Bosch.

Biography Mandijn trained in Haarlem. He moved to Antwerp in 1530.

He was the teacher of Jan van der Elburcht, Gillis Mostaert, Bartholomeus Spranger, Aert de Loose, Ambrosius Smidt, Lucas Verschriecken and Jacob Verstraten. He died in Antwerp.

Work

Only one signed work of Mandijn survives, the Temptation of Saint Anthony (Frans Hals Museum in Haarlem). It is similar in subject matter and style to Hieronymus Bosch. This is why he has been called a follower of Bosch. The 'Temptation' is inspired by Bosch's work. Mandijn's style was, however, more painterly and the colours and fantastic creatures are less harmonious. As a result, the whole is less powerful than Bosch.

A recent study showed that Mandijn was also proficient in the "antique" manner. In 1552, for instance, the painter and his workshop completed a monumental altarpiece in a classicizing style for the Church of Saint Eustace in Zichem. The triptych with scenes from the life of Saint Eustace is still preserved in the afore-mentioned church.