As a result of extensive art historical and archival research, CODART patron Alexander Thijs has written the very first monograph and catalogue raisonné on Nicolaes Gillis (1593-1630). The book, Nicolaes Gillis (Antwerpen 1593 – Haarlem 1630) – Pionier van het Haarlemse voedsel- en bloemstilleven, is written in Dutch and has been published today by Primavera Pers.

Until now, not much was known about the life of Nicolaes Gillis, except that he came from Antwerp and worked in Haarlem. This new research suggests a solid apprenticeship in Antwerp, after which Gillis made a splash as a pioneer of the Haarlem food and flower still life. Gillis learned much from Osias Beert in Antwerp and from Floris van Dijck in Haarlem. The combined influence of Gillis and Van Dijck was to last for generations of still life painters. Although the oeuvre of Nicolaes Gillis is not very large, this book shows that he was more versatile and influential than previously thought; Gillis was not only a link between Antwerp and Haarlem, but also a true innovator.

More information about the book can be found on the website of Primavera Pers.