Jean-Baptiste van Loo
French painter known for portraiture

Born
January 14th, 1684
341 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1745
279 years ago — 61 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
France
Links & References
A prominent French painter from the 18th century, van Loo specialized in portrait painting and became a prominent figure in the French art scene. Working primarily in the style of Rococo, he produced many notable portraits for the French aristocracy. His academic career included serving as a member of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture. Van Loo spent several years in Italy, where he was influenced by the works of the Old Masters. After returning to France, he became court painter to King Louis XV and produced various works that captured the elegance and opulence of the period.
Served as court painter to Louis XV
Produced significant Rococo portraits
Other People Born on January 14th
Mike Pelfrey
A professional baseball pitcher played primarily for the New York Mets in Major League Baseball (MLB). Pitched from 2006 to 2017, contributing to multiple seasons with the Mets. Displayed notable performances, particularly in the early years. Additionally played for the Minnesota Twins and the Detroit Tigers, completing a decade-long MLB career. Achieved a career-high in strikeouts, showcasing proficiency on the mound throughout career.
Continue ReadingManuel de Oliveira Gomes da Costa
Served as the 10th President of Portugal from 1926 to 1927. Started a military career that included participating in various campaigns and eventual promotion through the ranks. Played a key role in the 1926 coup d'état that led to the establishment of a military dictatorship in Portugal. Focused on stabilizing the country during a period of turmoil and political instability.
Continue ReadingGerben Karstens
A professional cyclist competed primarily in the 1960s and early 1970s. Achieved significant success in road cycling, particularly in the Tour de France. Featured prominently in prestigious cycling races and earned recognition in the Netherlands and internationally. Contributed to the sport through competitive spirit and skill, influencing future generations of cyclists.
Continue ReadingRichard Briers
An English actor achieved prominence through extensive work in television and film. Played Tom Good in the series 'The Good Life', which aired from 1975 to 1978. Starred in 'Ever Decreasing Circles' from 1984 to 1989, showcasing his talent in comedy. Additionally, appeared in various stage productions and films over a career spanning more than five decades, further solidifying a reputation in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingJames Garrard
Served as the second governor of Kentucky from 1796 to 1804. Held important positions in the Kentucky legislative assemblies and was involved in the early political landscape of the state. Worked as a Baptist minister and was influential in promoting religious practices. Engaged in farming and contributed to the community's agricultural development.
Continue ReadingBev Perdue
Originally from North Carolina, this individual served as the 73rd Governor of the state. As a member of the Democratic Party, facilitated advancements in education and economic issues during tenure. Prior to governorship, held various educational leadership roles, including as a state legislator and Lieutenant Governor. Worked on initiatives aimed at improving education funding and economic development.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 19th
Kyösti Kallio
A Finnish farmer, banker, and politician, served as the 4th President of Finland from 1937 to 1940. Played a crucial role in Finland's defense during World War II and addressed national needs during the challenging times of the war. Prior to the presidency, held various governmental roles, including Minister of Agriculture and Minister of Social Affairs. Contributed to the establishment of Finland's post-war reconstruction and modernization efforts.
Continue ReadingThomas Fremantle
Served in the British Royal Navy and became an admiral. Participated in the Napoleonic Wars, notably in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Held parliamentary positions, advocating for naval reforms and interests. Reached the rank of Vice Admiral before passing in 1819. Contributed to naval strategy and had a notable military career that spanned several years.
Continue ReadingMarcello Mastroianni
Born in Italy, an influential actor emerged in the film industry, particularly in Italian cinema. Played lead roles in Federico Fellini's acclaimed films, including '8½' and 'La Dolce Vita,' contributing to the Neorealism movement. Worked extensively in French cinema as well, collaborating with prominent directors. Mastroianni's performances captured complex characters and human emotions, earning significant recognition and awards throughout his career. His work reflected the cultural landscape of the time, making significant contributions to both Italian and French film.
Continue ReadingKim Peek
A megasavant exhibited extraordinary memory capabilities, capable of recalling vast amounts of information. Provided insights to researchers on savant syndrome. Lived with developmental disabilities and was a key figure in understanding the potential of the human brain. Inspired the character Raymond Babbitt in the film 'Rain Man', which brought attention to the abilities of individuals with savant syndrome.
Continue ReadingV. C. Andrews
An American author, illustrator, and painter achieved recognition through a series of gothic horror novels. 'Flowers in the Attic', published in 1979, became a bestseller and established a cult following. The book's success led to a series of sequels collectively known as the Dollanganger Series, exploring themes of family secrets, betrayal, and psychological trauma. Andrews's writing style is characterized by intricate plots and deeply flawed characters, captivating a large audience. Several of her novels were adapted into television films, further expanding her popularity. Despite her passing in 1986, her works continue to influence the genre of young adult and gothic fiction.
Continue ReadingWerner Dankwort
Served as a colonel in the German military and later worked as a diplomat. Engaged in activities that bridged the Russian and German governments during his career. Contributed to military and diplomatic relations between the two nations. Involved in various negotiations that aimed to strengthen ties during a period of significant geopolitical change.
Continue Reading