George van der Mijn
George van der Mijn was born into a family of painters in the Dutch Republic in 1723. He spent significant time working in London during the 1740s, a period where he gained access to the British aristocracy. His career remains distinct because he moved away from the traditional, rigid portraiture popular in the Netherlands at the time. Instead, he adopted a softer, more fluid style that prioritised the personal character of his sitters over formal status.
Biography
His artistic approach relied on a careful observation of light and texture. In works such as his study of a hand or the group portrait of the Hasselaer family, he focused on the tactile quality of fabric and the subtle nuances of human anatomy. He avoided heavy stylisation, preferring to capture his subjects with a directness that makes his portraiture appear honest. His method involved a light touch with the brush, which allowed for a naturalistic finish that remains recognisable in his surviving prints.
Modern collectors value Van der Mijn for the clarity of his composition. His portrait of Mr. Pieter Cornelis Hasselaer demonstrates a balance between individual personality and the social expectations of the eighteenth century. These prints offer a window into the daily life of the Dutch elite, providing a refined aesthetic that fits well in various home settings. His work provides a historical record that feels grounded and accessible.
Notable Works
Tap to view larger.
Next stop
Browse the movements →
Every movement in the collection, from the Renaissance to Pop art.
Related Artists
Frequently Asked Questions
When was George van der Mijn born?
George van der Mijn was born in 1723 and died in 1763.What is George van der Mijn known for?
George van der Mijn is known for george van der Mijn was an eighteenth-century Dutch painter known for his fluid, naturalistic portraiture and his period of activity in London.