Hans Bollongier

Hans Gillisz. Bollongier or Boulenger (1600 – 1645) was a Dutch Golden Age still life flower painter. He was a specialist in bouquets of blooms
Paintings attributed to him that are not flower- or fruit still lifes are likely the work of his brother Horatio.
 Bollongier's work reveals little contemporary influence. Compared to other painters of floral still-lifes, he employed loose, forceful brushstrokes. His paintings also feature a powerful contrast between dark and light.

Still life with flowers.

 His work today is considered part of the proof that Tulip Mania took place, although there is reason to believe that this is also just part of early Haarlem tourist propaganda. Even as early as the 17th century, gentry from Amsterdam, Leiden, and places farther away enjoyed visiting the tulip fields of Haarlem in the Spring, and paintings of tulips were as popular as the bulbs.

Flower Piece