- Huygens, Constantijn
- (1596-1687)Dutch poet, musician, and statesman from The Hague. Huygens was secretary to Stadholder Frederik Hendrik, prince of Orange, from 1625 to 1647, serving as well as his artistic advisor. He also worked for William II, Frederik's successor. His father Christiaan, secretary of the Council of State of the Dutch Republic, had encouraged a broad education for his young son. Huygens therefore was exposed to art, music, science, and languages. He was also well traveled. Among the places he visited were London, Brussels, Paris, and Venice, where he went on a diplomatic mission. King James I of England knighted him in 1621 for his musical talents. It was Huygens who sought out the young Rembrandt in 1629. In his autobiography, he praised the master's Judas Returning the Thirty Pieces of Silver (1629; Yorkshire, Mulgrave Castle) for its effective conveyance of deep emotion. He also referred to Rembrandt as the greatest of history painters.
Historical dictionary of Renaissance art. Lilian H. Zirpolo. 2008.