Ten distinct depictions of the now-extinct dodo, crafted between 1611 and 1628, define the primary artistic legacy of Roelant Savery. A Flemish-born painter, printmaker, and draftsperson, Savery operated within the Dutch Golden Age, navigating the complex political landscape of the Habsburg Netherlands before establishing his professional reputation across Prague and the Dutch Republic.
Early Life and Training
Born in Kortrijk in 1576, Savery belonged to an Anabaptist family that relocated to Haarlem around 1585 to escape the Spanish occupation of the Southern Netherlands. His formal instruction in painting began under the tutelage of his elder brother, Jacob Savery, and the artist Hans Bol.
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Around 1604, Savery moved to Prague to serve as court painter for Emperors Rudolf II and Mathias, both patrons of Mannerist art. During this residency, he completed a study of Tyrolean flora between 1606 and 1608. Among his pupils during this period was Gillis d'Hondecoeter.
Utrecht and Professional Decline
By 1616, Savery had relocated to Amsterdam, later settling in Utrecht in 1618 where he joined the local artist's guild. He acquired a residence on the Boterstraat in 1621, which featured a large garden that attracted visitors including Adam Willaerts, Balthasar van der Ast, and Ambrosius Bosschaert. Despite his success during the 1620s, Savery faced financial hardship, eventually declaring bankruptcy in 1638. He died in Utrecht in 1639.
Artistic Style and Subject Matter
Savery specialized in landscapes influenced by the tradition of Gillis van Coninxloo, typically integrating biblical or mythological themes with detailed botanical and zoological elements. His portfolio includes flower still lifes set in stone niches and various depictions of rare animals, such as the Dodo and a species speculated to be the Martinique macaw. His nephew, Hans Savery, served as his primary assistant and later produced works based on the uncle's animal illustrations.
Fast facts
- Born: 1576, Kortrijk
- Died: 1639, Utrecht
- Citizenship: Dutch Republic; Habsburg Netherlands
- Occupations: Court painter, painter, printmaker, draftsperson
- Notable work: The Dodo
- Notable work: The poet crowned by two apes at the feast of the animals
- Notable work: Elijah fed by the ravens
- Movement: Dutch Golden Age painting
Questions readers ask
What is the most recognizable work by Roelant Savery?
The 1626 painting known as Edwards' Dodo, currently held in the Natural History Museum in London, is considered his most standard and influential image.
Did Savery teach other artists?
Yes, his pupils included Gillis d'Hondecoeter, Allaert van Everdingen, and Roelant Roghman.
Achievements
- Notable work: The poet crowned by two apes at the feast of the animals
- Notable work: Elijah fed by the ravens
- Notable work: Landscape with ruins, cattle and deer
- Notable work: The Dodo
- Movement: Dutch Golden Age painting
