Execution of the Five Kings of the Amorites

The Dutch Golden Age was a period from 1581 to 1672, when the Netherlands experienced the "Dutch Miracle", transcended to the foremost maritime and economic power. In 1568, the Seven Provinces started a rebellion against Philip II of Spain, leading to the Eighty Years' War with Spain and the Thirty Years' War between other European superpowers. Protestants moved from the southern to the northern Netherlands, many settled in Amsterdam, transforming a port town into one of the most important commercial centers in the world by 1630. In addition to the migration of Protestants, there were also influxes of refugees who had previously fled from religious persecution, particularly Sephardi Jews from Portugal and Spain, and Protestants from France. Catholics moved in the other direction - to the southern provinces, modern Belgium. North quickly gained the highest literacy rates in Europe, an abundance of capital, the largest merchant fleet in Europe. The Dutch dominated trade in the Baltic Sea, between China and Japan, and with the English colonies in North America. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) was the first multinational corporation, financed by shares that established the first modern stock exchange. The Bank of Amsterdam, the first central bank, was established in 1609. The Dutch Golden Age is the art period dominanted by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Jacob van Ruisdael, and Frans Hals. Some notable artistic styles and trends include Haarlem Mannerism, Utrecht Caravaggism, the School of Delft, the Leiden fijnschilders, and Dutch classicism. 1672 is called a disaster year" when the Dutch Republic was attacked by England, France, Münster, and Bavaria. The invading armies quickly defeated most of the Dutch States Army and conquered part of the Republic.

Joachim Beuckelaer was a Flemish painter born around 1533 in Antwerp, Belgium. He was known for his still life paintings, particularly of food and kitchen scenes. Beuckelaer was part of a family of artists, including his brother Pieter and his uncle Joachim Patinir. Beuckelaer began his career as an apprentice to his uncle, Pieter Aertsen, who also painted still lifes and kitchen scenes. He later established his own workshop in Antwerp, where he produced works for wealthy patrons and religious institutions. Beuckelaer's paintings often depicted everyday life, with a focus on the preparation and consumption of food. His compositions were highly detailed, with an emphasis on the textures and colours of different foods. He also incorporated religious symbolism into his works, such as the inclusion of a crucifix or a biblical scene in the background. One of Beuckelaer's most famous works is 'The Four Elements: Earth', which depicts a kitchen scene with an abundance of fruit, vegetables and meat. The painting is notable for its intricate detail and use of light and shadow to create depth. Beuckelaer died sometime between 1570 and 1574, but his legacy lived on through his influence on other Flemish painters such as Frans Snyders and Jan Brueghel the Elder. Today, his works can be found in museums and private collections around the world.