Nikolaos Kantounis

Nikolaos Kantounis or Kandounis (; 1767–1834) was a Greek priest, painter and teacher who did not follow the traditional Maniera Greca. His teacher was the famous painter Nikolaos Koutouzis. He began to incorporate the Maniera Italiana into the Heptanese School. Kantounis, Panagiotis Doxaras, Nikolaos Doxaras and Koutouzis were all prolific members of that school. Kantounis was one of the most important painters in the Neoclassical Period in Greece. He was a representative of the middle to late Modern Greek Enlightenment in Greek art. Over 164 of his paintings have survived. He is known for painting many portraits. Some of his works resemble the style of Nikolaos Doxaras. He was also a member of the secret organization for Greek Independence called the Filiki Eteria.

Biography

He was born in Zakynthos to a very wealthy and educated family. Records indicate Nikolaos was baptized on January 28, 1768. His first teacher was the Greek poet .

The Greek painter, Ioannis Korais, provided his first art lessons. He also worked in the studios of Nikolaos Koutouzis, who is rumored to have expelled him out of jealousy. He would later claim to be largely self-taught. the Municipal Gallery of Larissa, the Teloglion Foundation of Arts etc.

Gallery

Notable works Elisabeth Moutzan-Martinegko, ca 1832 National Gallery of Athens

Lamentation of Christ (Kantounis)