Dutch painter, son of Jan Davidszoon de Heem [1606-1684], one of the greatest Baroque painters of still life in Holland whose most numerous and characteristic works are arrangements of fruits, metal dishes, and wine glasses; compositions of books and musical instruments; and examples of the popular "vanity of life" theme, with such symbolic articles as skulls and hourglasses. Cornelis de Heem, was not quite the equal of Jan. Jan's younger brother, David Davidsz. de Heem, and Jan's eldest son, David Janszoon de Heem, were also well-known painters.