Jacob Peter Gowy Paintings

Jacob Peter Gowy was a Flemish painter who is best known for his collaboration with the much more famous artist Peter Paul Rubens. Born in Antwerp in 1615, Gowy's early life is not well documented, but it is known that he became a master in the Antwerp Guild of Saint Luke in 1642. This indicates that he had completed his training as a painter, which would have included an apprenticeship, by that time.

Despite his lack of individual fame, Gowy's work with Rubens has cemented his place in art history. Rubens was one of the most influential artists of the Flemish Baroque tradition, and his studio was a bustling center of artistic production. Gowy is particularly remembered for his work on 'The Fall of Icarus', which is based on a design by Rubens. This painting, which depicts the mythological story of Icarus who flew too close to the sun, is the most well-known piece associated with Gowy and showcases the dynamic movement and dramatic use of color characteristic of the Baroque period.

There is limited information about Gowy's independent career and his other works. His style was heavily influenced by Rubens, and as a result, his paintings often mimic the grandeur and the vivid narrative style of his mentor. Gowy's death is recorded in 1661 in Antwerp, and while his own artistic legacy may not be extensive or well-documented, his contributions to the workshop of Rubens and the few works known to be his own still allow for a glimpse into the rich artistic environment of 17th century Flemish art.