_Gerard von Honthorst_ (Dutch: 1590-1656).
This artist went early in life to Rome, where he acquired the
style of Caravaggio (see 172). "His rude contrasts of opaque
shade and brilliant light, his luminous effects produced by
the light of a torch or flambeau, and the naturalism of his
works, caused him to be much sought after in Italy, where
this style was in fashion," and acquired for him the name of
"Gherardo della Notte." He returned to Utrecht, his birthplace,
in 1623, and in 1628 was commissioned by Charles I. to decorate
the palace of Whitehall. While in England he also painted the
portraits of the Court and many of the nobility. Several of his
portraits are to be seen in the National Portrait Gallery.