Ludolf Backhuysen I (1630–1708) Ludolf Backhuysen I, a german-born dutch painter, was born on december 28, 1630, in emden, east frisia. he moved to amsterdam around 1650, where he initially worked as a merchant's clerk and calligrapher. however, his true passion lay in art, and he soon devoted himself to painting, studying under the esteemed masters allart van everdingen and hendrik dubbels. Rise to Prominence Backhuysen’s artistic talent quickly gained recognition, particularly in his maritime subjects. After willem van de velde the elder and younger left for england in 1672, backhuysen b…