Cornelis Bega (Dutch, 1631 or 1632 - 1664) - The Alchemist - Google Art Project

Bega was born in Haarlem and was a pupil of Adriaen van Ostade. He painted genre scenes, portraits and landscapes and was known for his ability to capture the everyday life of the common people. Bega's work was often humorous and satirical, and he had a talent for capturing facial expressions and body language. He also worked as an engraver, producing prints of his own work as well as that of other artists. Bega died at an early age, possibly as a result of the bubonic plague. Despite his short career, he left behind a significant body of work that is still admired today.