Ferdinand van Kessel - Ansichten aus den vier Weltteilen mit Szenen von Tieren, Havanna - GG 3017 - Kunsthistorisches Museum

Van Kessel was born in 1648 in Antwerp, Belgium. He was the son of a painter and was trained in the family workshop. He became a member of the Antwerp Guild of Saint Luke in 1668. Van Kessel specialised in still lifes, especially of flowers, fruit and insects. His works were highly detailed and often included exotic specimens from around the world, reflecting the growing interest in botany and natural history during the Baroque period. Van Kessel's work was highly sought after by collectors and he received commissions from prominent patrons throughout Europe. His paintings can be found in museums and private collections throughout the world. Van Kessel died in Antwerp in 1696 at the age of 48. He was a highly respected artist during his lifetime and his work continues to be admired for its technical skill and beauty.