Aart de Gelder (26 October 1645 - 28 August 1727), Dutch painter.
He was born into a wealthy family in Dordrecht and his first teacher was Samuel van Hoogstraten, a former student of Rembrandt, who Gelder admired. The young artist continued his studies in Amsterdam, where he had the unique chance to be the last - and most devoted - student of Rembrandt, who strongly influenced his style. After completing his studies he returned to Dordrecht. He worked in Rembrandt's style, with broad touches and interesting light and dark contrasts and produced mainly portraits and biblical compositions. He had a passion for collecting antiques and curiosities and his studio in Dordrecht resembled an antiques shop, filled with armours, old weapons, fabrics, accessories for his works.
He used to recreate his scenes using dummies and weapons before tracing even a single line, often spent several days preparing a painting in this manner. Even if later Remdrandt's style became less popular, Gelder continue to work in this manner, oblivious and not caring for the change of the collectors' taste. A rich man, he painted for his pleasure and during his life refused to sell even one of his works and therefore he was practically unknown outside of his home town.
