Gerard David: A Master of Early Netherlandish Portraiture Gerard David, born around 1460 in Oudewater, Netherlands, and tragically dying in Bruges circa 1523, stands as a pivotal figure in the burgeoning world of early Netherlandish painting. While often overshadowed by his more flamboyant contemporaries like Jan van Eyck and Rogier van der Weyden, David’s meticulous technique, profound understanding of human psychology, and innovative approach to portraiture cemented his place as one of the most significant artists of his era. His career unfolded primarily in Bruges, a vibrant commercial ce…