VANDER WERF.

THIS painter was born near Rotterdam, in the year 1659. At the age of nine he entered into the school of Picolet, a portrait painter. Controlled afterwards in his pursuits, by his parents, who intended him for another profession, it was not without considerable difficulty that he received the lessons of Eglon Vanderneer. He continued with this master four years, and made so happy a progress as laid the foundation of his fame.

He took infinite pains to improve himself, after the best plaister figures, cast from the antique he could procure; so that he was introduced into the world at a very early time of life with all possible advantages. He at first employed himself in painting portraits, in the manner of Netscher; but he soon became disgusted with that kind of painting, and devoted himself entirely to historical subjects. A fortunate circumstance drew Vander Werf from obscurity, and made his fortune. The Elector Palatine, travelling incognito in Holland, was so delighted with one of the pictures of this artist, that he immediately purchased it, and conferred upon him the honour of knighthood. He also allowed him a noble pension, and shewing him every mark of real esteem, bestowed on him other proofs of liberality and beneficence. Of this distinction Vander Werf evinced himself worthy, by the exertion of his talents and his unbounded gratitude.

The genius of Vander Werf directed him peculiarly to the painting of history in small, which he finished in a most exquisite manner. His pencil is tender and sweet, and his design correct; yet, in most of his works, his colouring is cold, although in the polish of his finishing he had no superior. He spent a great deal of time on his pictures; but intense labour tended to diminish the spirit of his works. The pictures of this eminent master are still purchased at very high prices, and are rarely to be met with.

He died in the year 1727, at the age of 68.